Denied Access

Mitch Rapp #24

by Don Bentley, Vince Flynn

“[A] callback to what makes Rapp such a special character, and a white-knuckle reminder of why this series remains the gold standard of the political thriller genre.” —The Real Book Spy

Don Bentley completes the trilogy begun with American Assassin by taking Mitch Rapp back to his fledgling assassin days, picking up where Kill Shot ended, on a mission to save the woman he loves amid a CIA showdown with the Russian intelligence services in a new thriller from the author of Vince Flynn’s #1 New York Times bestselling series.

The Central Intelligence Agency is in crisis.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Congress is questioning the organization’s necessity. Interim CIA director Thomas Stansfield must fight for his agency’s survival while explaining why the previous candidate for his job was found murdered in a French hotel—surrounded by booze, cash, and dead men. Worst yet, a brilliantly run sting operation in Moscow has resulted in the arrest of America’s most prized Russian asset and the expulsion of his CIA handler.

With the CIA’s Moscow Station now paralyzed by the catastrophic intelligence failure, Stansfield seeks help from Mitch Rapp, a newly minted assassin in the secretive Orion program. But Rapp has problems of his when his Swiss girlfriend Greta’s grandfather receives a box containing the head of a former Cold War comrade along with a note promising that Greta’s head will be next, Rapp finds himself on the frontlines in a war between the American and Russian intelligence services. To protect the woman he loves and save the CIA from destruction, Rapp must be willing to risk everything.

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Mystery Thriller, Mystery, Espionage, Action, Spy Thriller

432 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 9, 2025

About the author

Don 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

Reviews

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tremendous.

[Matt Ellis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one lands squarely in the “meh but had its moments” category. Don Bentley can absolutely write action and a few of the set pieces hit hard, but the book never fully delivers on the emotional punch I was hoping for.

The pacing moves well and the spycraft feels authentic. There are flashes of the old Flynn magic where Rapp feels both dangerous and human. The problem is that we already know how this part of his life plays out, so a lot of it feels predictable.

Bentley shines most when he slows things down and lets Rapp think instead of just fight. There are a handful of scenes that really work, and I respect how he finishes the prequel story without turning it into a nostalgia trip.

Overall it is fine. Not great, not bad. Some moments really pop, others just kind of sit there. Worth reading if you are a completionist, but it will not be one I revisit.

[Mike Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mitch Rapp, Orion Assassin, is back in the final installment of the American Assassin Trilogy. The events pick up shortly after Kill Shot ends. Mitch is lying low with his girlfriend, Greta. Things quickly escalate. Greta’s grandfather, a spy with ties to Stan Hurley, calls Mitch to his office to show him a head of a former friend in a box with a note from that sender that Greta is next. Meanwhile, Russia is still adapting to the fall of the USSR. A foe of Thomas Stansfield, acting CIA director, is hell bend on exacting revenge with a plot that will pull Europe into war. With Russia in turmoil, Stansfield calls on Rapp, Stan Hurley, and Irene Kennedy to stop the plot from hatching and avoid war. Rapp is torn and spread thin trying to save his girlfriend and the world.

What an end to the Mitch Rapp origin trilogy. Don Bentley writes a closing novel that would make Vince Flynn, creator of Mitch Rapp, proud. I am sure this was not an easy book to write. There had to have been a lot of pressure to get it right as American Assassin and Kill Shot, the first two books in the trilogy, were two of the last three book Mr. Flynn wrote before his untimely death. Plus the trilogy is the origin story of Mitch Rapp. Lucky for readers, Mr. Bentley is up to the task. This book is fast paced with lots of action and things happening seemly every page. It was interesting to see Mitch Rapp back in his early days again. Much more experienced and savvy than he was in American Assassin, but not fully seasoned like he is in the last novel set in present times, Capture or Kill.

Another aspect of the book that I really enjoyed, was the expansion of other characters backstories. Right off the bat you learn about Thomas Stansfield’s escapades in World War II as well as the events surrounding his confirmation as CIA Director. It is nice to see a character no longer involved in present day stories getting some time and character development.

Thomas Stansfield is not the only character who has more of their story told. You learn a lot more about Stan Hurley’s days as a spy and you get to see him work with Mitch Rapp in the field. This aspect of the book is very fulfilling and exciting. Irene Kennedy also gets some field work in Russia. Having really only seen her in the field once or twice in the series, it was interesting to see her in the field working to solve problems rather than behind a desk at Langley.

There is a lot going on in this book, and Mr. Bentley weaves together a coherent story that is a page turner. If you have not read any of the Mitch Rapp series, this book will start your journey. If you have read all the books, you won’t be disappointed in Denied Access. Mr. Bentley has picked up the series from Mr. Flynn and Mr. Mills and continued the high standards of the series. The Mitch Rapp Series is the best spy thriller out there. Don’t delay in picking up this book on September 30th. Thank you to Don Bentley, Emily Bestler Books, and The Atria Mystery Bus for a free advanced readers copy for an honest review. Mitch Rapp is back!

[Mark Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don Bentley masterfully concludes the Mitch Rapp origin story begun in Vince Flynn's American Assassin and Kill Shot with Denied Access. Bentley truly captures the essence of Stansfield, Hurley, Kennedy, and Rapp as they establish their new roles within the CIA and the Orion Group. His storytelling recaptures the thrilling intensity of the earlier books, blending relentless action, gripping suspense, and intricate plots that make Denied Access nearly impossible to put down.

[Brent Western · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, not great. I’ve read all of the Mitch Rapp books and this one is just meh. It closes a chapter that didn’t need to be reopened and lacks some of the general items that make these fun reads.

This particular story dint even get proper closure either. I have to say maybe going to its third writer it’s time to let Vince’s creation rest.

[Richie Plunkett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for this after being selected as a Mitch Rapp ambassador. It came at the perfect time as I read every book in the series. The Kyle Mills ones felt different at the end. Like it wasn’t about a spy novel, political thriller, or Mitch Rapp. They came off more Gray Man rather than Rapp. I still liked them, they were just different.

Don Bentley has done a fantastic job writing with Capture or Kill and this. To have so many classic characters back was amazing. I loved reading back into young Mitch again. He wasn’t a boogie man, he wasn’t flawless, but man it was great to see him continue his evolution. I especially liked Senator Rutledge making an appearance.

The book had it all. The violence. The political thriller. Spy espionage. It brought me back to classic Rapp and maybe it was nostalgia, but I absolutely loved it

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book from new author to the series Don Bentley. This book takes us back in time and finishes the original trilogy that Vince Flynn started yet was only able to complete the first two books before he passed away. That trilogy started with American Assassin and took us back to Mitch's younger days - his initial days in the program when he was still with Stan Hurley and Irene Kennedy was up and coming at the CIA. Mitch is dealing with the aftermath of Paris when it becomes clear that someone has broken through his legend and is after him.

He is also pulled into another situation with the woman (Greta) he is dating. Her grandfather, who happens to also be good friends with Stan Hurley - finds himself in the crosshairs of someone attempting payback and reaches out to keep her safe. Unfortunately, Mitch gets pulled into that situation as well.

Then there is the whole Russia situation that is flaring up and all of a sudden, it seems like all kind of things are tied together. As usual, this is filled with non stop action and serious drama. The storyline dials up the tension until we have a major event occurring in the Lubyanka building. Definitely lots of drama.....

There were moments that I did question - Mitch's relationship with Greta at times felt....off. At least, he felt a little more emotionally invested than usual but maybe that's just me.

All in all this was another great entry for the series.

[David Feldman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge Mitch Rapp fan! As a Mitch Rapp Ambassador I received an advanced copy - what a thrill. Don Bentley went back in time to complete Vince Flynn's (original author) trilogy - American Assassin, Kill Shot and now Denied Access.
The book is fantastic. A must read for Rapp fans. Was nice to go back to answer to some unanswered questions, plot and character lines. Book comes out tomorrow - don't wait! You'll finish wanting more. Can't wait to see where Don Bentley will take us next. Please hurry :)

[Daryl J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Readers Copy of DENIED ACCESS by Don Bentley. As part of the Mitch Rapp series, this adventure takes place early in Rapp’s career, so it is both a prequel and a sequel to the other books in the series, and it completes the American Assassin trilogy. Like all of the Mitch Rapp books (written by Vince Flynn, the creator, and followed by Kyle Mills and now, Don Bentley) it is highly readable, entertaining, filled with intricate plots and sub-plots, and great characters. Learning more about the major characters is a plus, but the non-stop intrigue is exceptional. In my opinion it’s the writers job to make me want to read. To this end, Bentley always delivers. Fans of Mitch Rapp and Don Bentley will not be disappointed.

[Todd Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher for giving me an opportunity to read this with an ARC edition -

Mitch Rapp is back, this time with the conclusion of the American Assassin trilogy. Don Bentley has fully taken the reigns of the Rappverse and this entry into the Rapp saga will not disappoint even the most die-hard fan.

Set in the early to mid 90s after the fall of the Soviet Union, DENIED ACCESS blazed through 400+ pages of action, suspense, and spy tradecraft. If you’re a fan of Mitch Rapp, pick the latest entry at your local bookstore on September 30th and buckle up. Bentley will take for a ride that won’t disappoint.

[Steven Netter · Rating 5 out of 5]

READ MY FULL REVIEW AT Best Thriller Books



Make sure to check out the full review

[Elysia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks for the ARC, a fast-paced thrilling read, and a kick-ass namesake, Don!

[Skip · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don Bentley completes the trilogy of Mitch Rapp's formative days as an Orion Team member in the early 1990s, which Vince Flynn started in 2010/2012 with American Assassin and Kill Shot. Saved by his Swiss girlfriend, Greta, Mitch is recovering and keeping a low profile. Things get hot fast, as Greta's grandfather grabs her for her own safety, and Russia grabs the wife of a CIA agent in Moscow, violating the longstanding practice of leaving families alone. Thomas Stansfield is on the hot seat as acting director, and sends Irene Kennedy to Moscow Station to take charge. Mitch finds himself in the center of the European spy capital of Vienna, as a Soviet foe is killing off the old guard with serious violence. Mitch is sent to Moscow to eliminate the bad guy, including a trip into the lion's den, Lubyanka, where he has to call an audible in order to escape with his life. A bit more Stanfield and Hurley than I wanted, but Irene emerges as a force with which to be reckoned (like Mitch.)

[Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

ln Don Bentley's second foray into the Mitch Rapp series he takes us back to the mid 90's following the events of Kill Shot.

Another excellent Rapp book featuring plenty of action and people trying to kill Mitch that don't quite work out the way they expect them.

[Patrick Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don Bentley puts the perfect chef’s kiss finishing touch on the American Assassin trilogy that Vince Flynn kicked off with American Assassin and Kill Shot. In Denied Access, all the Orion team favorites are back, Mitch and Hurley, ready to dive headfirst into the CIA’s toughest missions. We also get more background on Thomas Stansfield and Irene Kennedy, which adds even more depth to the story and the Rappverse.

This one takes us back to the 90s, where tensions are sky-high and Mitch finds himself caught in the middle of a showdown between American and Russian intelligence. The book is fast-paced, action-packed, and everything you’d want in a classic Mitch Rapp story, it kept me hooked the whole way through.

What I loved most is how Bentley adds his own flair while still keeping true to the foundation Vince Flynn built all those years ago with Transfer of Power. Picking up someone else’s legacy is no easy job, but Bentley (and Kyle Mills before him) have done an incredible job keeping the Mitch Rapp saga alive and thriving.

As a longtime Rapp fan, this book hit all the right notes—and left me excited for what’s still to come.

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like taking a Time Machine to a place and time when Vince Flynn’s novels ruled the genre!

Don Bentley has delivered to us a look back to a time in the Mitch Rapp universe when Stan Hurley was at his best. There are characters you read who really resonate with you on a personal level. Stan has always been one of my favorites.

In Denied Access, Rapp teams with the surly Stan Hurley as tensions rise in Europe which could lead to military action by Russia. All the while, an old axe to grind, twenty years in the making is coming to light.

Excellent work by Don Bentley taking us back in time. I highly recommended this novel for fans of the early Vince Flynn novels!

[Fara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over six and a half decades ago when my Dad saw me read my first grown up novel that a friend passed me, instead of being upset at my 10 year old precocious behavior, he laughed and suggested that I must be old enough to read the books he and my Mom had on their bedside tables as well as my usual library runs.  We always discussed books because that was just common behavior in my family.  On the night before my wedding the discussion was about a new international thriller he loved, and my love for international thrillers was born. Through the years, I have followed most of the recurring heroes and found that Vince Flynn's Mitch Rapp has consistantly been my favorite.  My favorite Book Club question was: "If I was in trouble, which fictional character would I call?"  and that answer was always Mitch Rapp!!

When Mr. Flynn passed away I actually cried as if he was a friend.  Then, wonderful writer Kyle Mills took over, it took until the 3rd book before he actually got the character in tune with what I felt was Mitch Rapp's character.  

Now, Don Bentley who is such a phenominal writer has taken Mitch Rapp back to his roots with one of the best books I have read in years!  Back to the beginning, when all the characters you have known as old are young and starting out.  How did they get there?  How did they become who they were?  All I want to tell you is that this is THE BOOK!  I refuse to share spoilers.  This book is way too good.  My first reaction when I saw what it was about was "I don't want to go back"  I was wrong.  I ate up every word.  Now,  all I can hope is that there is another very very soon because while the official date for this is September 30th, I want another NOW!!

[Damon Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I am thankful to the team at Emily Bestler and Atria, as well as James Abt, for allowing me to be a Mitch Rapp Ambassador again.

Don Bentley began his tenure of writing Mitch Rapp series last year with "Capture Or Kill" and it was an immediate success. no simple feat with fans of the late, great Vince Flynn. so how would Don do in his 2nd Mitch Rapp novel?

In something different, Don went back to the beginning and finished the early Mitch trilogy following behind "American Assassin" and "Kill Shot". Imagine a young Irene Kennedy and a young Mitch Rapp, alongside our favorite crotchety trainer, Stan Hurley, as they set themselves as the future of the CIA and the origin of the Orion team.

In a Cold War spy thriller with multiple stories intertwined, I felt as though I was watching my favorite Tarantino film as all the stories come together, creating a classic. Bravo Don!

[Michael Greene · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the idea of setting this Mitch Rapp novel in the past. It has been so long in the series that I had forgotten what led up to where this book started. At first I found Don Bentley’s writing style a bit too verbose, but he seemed to find his rhythm as the story progressed. Interestingly, I did not really enjoy the Mitch Rapp parts this time around. I actually preferred the sections that did not focus directly on him.

[Angella M · Rating 3 out of 5]

where is Mitch

I’m 70% through this book and about 10% of it has been about Mitch. I do enjoy learning more of Irene Thomas and Stan but not at the expense of time reading about Rapp. I also understand that pieces in the board have to be arranged and then pulled together for a successful conclusion. I’m all for that but less time explaining all the board pieces and more time exploring a young Mitch is why I bought this book. The entire take down of the Tunis mission was told from the Russian’s point of view. Really? That was a lot of chapters explaining what was happening to him and not what Mitch was doing. Sure if you want to do that, craft the same scene from both points of view.

The scene where Mitch leaves the safe house and runs into the 3 Vienna rough guys was lame. We already knew how that was going to turn out. So that scene is briefly told and NOTHING on the Tunis mission from Mitch’s POV. That was a big miss!!!

Every chapter so far keeps going to where Irene, Thomas and Stan are and nothing about Mitch. Like I said I’m 70% through…I feel that anything to do with Mitch will be rushed and tell us little of who the young Mitch was. I feel like I already knew Thomas Irene and Stan from other Mitch Rapp books.

I have no problem with authors story telling except he is not telling the story of the main character and who we all came to read about.

Feeling “ripped off”.

[Matt Persson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely stunning masterpiece. Don Bentley got the band back together with Rapp, Kennedy, Stansfield, Hurley, and Greta. Add in some espionage intrigue and post Cold War tension you have yourself the must read book of the year! I don’t know how he did it but completing the American Assassin trilogy that we have all waited for since the days of Vince Flynn and leaving us all excited for more!! Honestly setting up the new roles in the Orion Team I can see this continuing for a few books! I am excited for the future!!

[SteVen Hendricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review — Vince Flynn Denied Access — Don Bentley

“Vince Flynn’s Denied Access” is author Don Bentley at the absolute top of his game—a sweltering hot, high-stakes Mitch Rapp thriller that grabs the reader by the collar from the first page and never lets go.

Bentley delivers another outstanding Mitch Rapp narrative with relentless pacing, razor-sharp prose, and a well beloved hero protagonist whose grit, heart, and tactical brilliance shine through every chapter.

The plot is as suspenseful as one could hope. Bentley layers danger upon danger, weaving a narrative filled with spy intelligence tradecraft, “violence of action” realism, and twist-after-twist precision.

Every scenario felt real, authentic, and adrenaline-soaked. One of the things that I admire about Don Bentley’s writing is that he brings the action in his stories to life with authenticity and validity.

But what truly makes Denied Access exceptional is the emotional depth beneath the action. Bentley gives us characters worth investing in—flawed, determined, fiercely human—and he makes reading about them feel both thrilling and deeply satisfying.

By the end of the story, the payoff is explosive, clear, and unforgettable.

This Mitch Rapp book is a standout thriller that fires on all cylinders. It’s not just another Vince Flynn must-read—it’s Don Bentley proving once again why he’s among the very best in the thriller genre.

He’s solidified himself as one of my favorite authors telling stories about my most favorite protagonist.

A flawless, heart-pounding five-star triumph and highly recommended!

[Admiral Tuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

What’s the most sure-fire way to attract the attention of the one person you DON’T want stalking you? Yep, someone is THAT shortsighted!
Denied Access is the final book in the American Assassin Trilogy and Don Bentley’s second foray into the Mitch Rapp universe.
I was very fortunate to be chosen once again as a Mitch Rapp Ambassador which means I was granted early access via an Advanced Readers Copy of Denied Access. I had a very hard time putting it down and not just blowing through it in a single day! It’s also extremely difficult trying to write a review without accidentally spoiling it!
Grab your copy now, reacquaint yourself with the early Orion players and Mitch’s unknown adventure.
#MitchRappIsBack, #Denied Access

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh Mitch Rapp, unbelievable suspense, always action packed, a triple series ending (so not a stand alone), old friends in high places-Russian, German and American, powerful individuals and an awesome storyline. Stay with the plot readers; very modern day and even a love interest. Enjoy

[Nathan Bowen · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite book of 2025 so far, exciting action and plot twists the whole way through. I highly recommend it!

[Ben Hirsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

back in the day, Thomas is still alive, Mitch and Hurley are fending off a potential attack in Latvia by the Russians. Greta's parents are killed, Irene goes over and runs Russia Station, Irene is continuing to run Orion, but is main confidant of Thomas who was made Director. It was just outstanding from page 1 to the end.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, that’s probably the quickest I have ever read an advanced readers copy of a Mitch Rapp novel. It is everything that I expected and I am really glad that Don Bentley was able to finish Vince‘s trilogy. Now I’m ready to reread the rest of the series after this one. Thank you so much for this great end to a great origin story, and most importantly, thank you Vince Flynn for giving us one of the greatest characters ever created. Looking forward to the next Rapp adventure mr. Bentley

[Deborah Wall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rapp growing up

Rapp is dealing with remnants of the Cold War and today’s complicated relationships. Orion was formed for these times but still has know the old.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read and other page turner. I enjoyed the story and was an easy read. Bentley continues the great character in Rapp and others. Already looking forward to the next.

[Brendan Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I mean: It's a Mitch Rapp book ... what else is there to say? Don Bentley does a great job continuing the Rapp story / universe. The book was well written, had the right amount of factual information to balance the plot without getting too technical, it was a fun read.

If I have one criticism: This book is a continuation of the Rapp origin story ... so takes place in the early 90's ... while it's somewhat interesting to see more of Rapp's origin, I enjoy the modern stories that take place in present day. The "present day" novels feel more relevant and hook me better than these origin stories. But, that's just me speaking.

Recommended.