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Marc Portman #3
Hard Cover
No rules. No mercy. Just one shot to stop a conspiracy that could spark global war.
Deep cover operative Marc Portman is sent to Russia on a high-stakes protect Leonid Tzorekov, a billionaire powerbroker and ex-KGB general. He’s got ties to Vladimir Putin and a secret plan that could change the world.
Tzorekov is brokering a covert peace deal to improve relations between Russia, the USA and the European Union. But a ruthless shadow network known only as the Wise Men is determined to stop it — and they’ll kill anyone in their way.
When the mission goes sideways, Portman is betrayed, cut off, and hunted across hostile territory. He must rely on his instincts, his training . . . and his willingness to fight dirty.
Because the only way to stop the Wise Men’s war — is to start one of his own.
A pulse-pounding thriller packed with lethal twists, explosive action, and one man who’ll stop at nothing to complete the mission.
Deep cover operative Marc Portman is sent to Russia on a high-stakes protect Leonid Tzorekov, a billionaire powerbroker and ex-KGB general. He’s got ties to Vladimir Putin and a secret plan that could change the world.
Tzorekov is brokering a covert peace deal to improve relations between Russia, the USA and the European Union. But a ruthless shadow network known only as the Wise Men is determined to stop it — and they’ll kill anyone in their way.
When the mission goes sideways, Portman is betrayed, cut off, and hunted across hostile territory. He must rely on his instincts, his training . . . and his willingness to fight dirty.
Because the only way to stop the Wise Men’s war — is to start one of his own.
A pulse-pounding thriller packed with lethal twists, explosive action, and one man who’ll stop at nothing to complete the mission.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2016
305 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Adrian Magson
47 books95 followersAdrian Magson is a British crime-writer, his books often involve conspiracies, and have two repeating main characters - Riley Gavin, a young female investigative reporter, and Frank Palmer, a former RMP (British Royal Military Policeman) now a private investigator.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 28, 2017
Hard Cover by Adrian Magson will probably retain its title when it comes out in paperback. Hard Cover represents the role of Marc Portman (Watchman) in this third instalment of this thriller series. The author again has used up to date political events to bring a modern twist on this genre.
A former KGB officer hopes to meet with his once time 'associate' Putin Leonid Tzorekov, now a Russian banker based in London takes his loyal bodyguard to the wilderness north of St Petersburg close to a dacha formally used by the Soviet elite. The meeting needs to be secret as it would not be popular by many inside government and the wider business community. Putin needs to 'disappear' to attend as Tzorekov is seen as a traitor with his pro-western capitalist views. A former friend of Alexander Litvinenko, Tzorekov has had attempts on his life in London so he plans to secretly enter Russian and wait to see if Putin get an away and if a third party can arrange it go to the chosen venue.
A group of industrialist who fear their profits will plummet if Putin changes tack form an unlikely association known as 'The Wise Men' they have far-reaching influence across the state to make people disappear, toe the line or influence for "the greater good" - money no option.
Portman is a free agent; a one man army, trained in the dark arts is approached by a joint British & USA secret service to watch Tzorekov's back inside Russia. Protect him at all costs so he can make his planned rendezvous with Putin. To provide 'Hard Cover'.
This is a clever, up to date novel full of twists and turns as the different factions, often with diverging agendas wrestle with trying to kill or protect Tzorekov as he steps off the plane in Russia a game begins more deadly than chess but with Portman often viewed as a disposable pawn.
The author is a wonderful story teller. His language is clear and precise allowing the plotting; authentic dialogue and non-stop action drive the narrative rather than over complicated gizmos or super powers on demand.
Set in a barren landscape of trees and lakes with even more trees and countless lakes when this becomes boring, amid weather that would chill a polar bear or perhaps make him grizzly.
Every aspect of the scenario is covered with a terrific and believable supporting cast of characters often in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Magson also steps back, and despite the fire power and money able to be brought to bear on this problem shows a less pragmatic outcome. Suggesting that state intervention cannot break the human spirit, cannot overcome human interactions and will never destroy core values held.
I'll leave you to decide reading this book if Portman and Tzorekov succeeded in the goals but for me the author goes beyond simply success or failure. To Magson and others encountered here it seems that to have cared and tried sometimes is enough and such little gains over time ensure ultimate success.
A former KGB officer hopes to meet with his once time 'associate' Putin Leonid Tzorekov, now a Russian banker based in London takes his loyal bodyguard to the wilderness north of St Petersburg close to a dacha formally used by the Soviet elite. The meeting needs to be secret as it would not be popular by many inside government and the wider business community. Putin needs to 'disappear' to attend as Tzorekov is seen as a traitor with his pro-western capitalist views. A former friend of Alexander Litvinenko, Tzorekov has had attempts on his life in London so he plans to secretly enter Russian and wait to see if Putin get an away and if a third party can arrange it go to the chosen venue.
A group of industrialist who fear their profits will plummet if Putin changes tack form an unlikely association known as 'The Wise Men' they have far-reaching influence across the state to make people disappear, toe the line or influence for "the greater good" - money no option.
Portman is a free agent; a one man army, trained in the dark arts is approached by a joint British & USA secret service to watch Tzorekov's back inside Russia. Protect him at all costs so he can make his planned rendezvous with Putin. To provide 'Hard Cover'.
This is a clever, up to date novel full of twists and turns as the different factions, often with diverging agendas wrestle with trying to kill or protect Tzorekov as he steps off the plane in Russia a game begins more deadly than chess but with Portman often viewed as a disposable pawn.
The author is a wonderful story teller. His language is clear and precise allowing the plotting; authentic dialogue and non-stop action drive the narrative rather than over complicated gizmos or super powers on demand.
Set in a barren landscape of trees and lakes with even more trees and countless lakes when this becomes boring, amid weather that would chill a polar bear or perhaps make him grizzly.
Every aspect of the scenario is covered with a terrific and believable supporting cast of characters often in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Magson also steps back, and despite the fire power and money able to be brought to bear on this problem shows a less pragmatic outcome. Suggesting that state intervention cannot break the human spirit, cannot overcome human interactions and will never destroy core values held.
I'll leave you to decide reading this book if Portman and Tzorekov succeeded in the goals but for me the author goes beyond simply success or failure. To Magson and others encountered here it seems that to have cared and tried sometimes is enough and such little gains over time ensure ultimate success.
October 10, 2019
Enjoyable suspense but the plot was not my usual type of reading material.
September 29, 2025
Meet Lone Mercenary, The Watchman or just Marc Portman.
My third book by this author and a third in a row of Marc Portman.
Is this as gripping as book 2, no I think a little heavier going, lots of tough Russian names to remember, but still a clever story, nasty politicians and good relationships between characters
No rules. No mercy. Just one shot to stop a conspiracy that could spark global war.
Deep cover operative Marc Portman is sent to Russia on a high-stakes mission: protect Leonid Tzorekov, a billionaire powerbroker and ex-KGB general. He’s got ties to Vladimir Putin and a secret plan that could change the world.
Tzorekov is brokering a covert peace deal to improve relations between Russia, the USA and the European Union. But a ruthless shadow network known only as the Wise Men is determined to stop it — and they’ll kill anyone in their way.
When the mission goes sideways, Portman is betrayed, cut off, and hunted across hostile territory. He must rely on his instincts, his training . . . and his willingness to fight dirty.
A strong and fun ending
Still a four stars, just.
My third book by this author and a third in a row of Marc Portman.
Is this as gripping as book 2, no I think a little heavier going, lots of tough Russian names to remember, but still a clever story, nasty politicians and good relationships between characters
No rules. No mercy. Just one shot to stop a conspiracy that could spark global war.
Deep cover operative Marc Portman is sent to Russia on a high-stakes mission: protect Leonid Tzorekov, a billionaire powerbroker and ex-KGB general. He’s got ties to Vladimir Putin and a secret plan that could change the world.
Tzorekov is brokering a covert peace deal to improve relations between Russia, the USA and the European Union. But a ruthless shadow network known only as the Wise Men is determined to stop it — and they’ll kill anyone in their way.
When the mission goes sideways, Portman is betrayed, cut off, and hunted across hostile territory. He must rely on his instincts, his training . . . and his willingness to fight dirty.
A strong and fun ending
Still a four stars, just.
June 8, 2016
What a brilliant series. Marc Portman is a guy that normally works in the shadows, making sure that black ops type activity goes as planned. If things go well nobody will know he was there, if they don't he is a very talented individual to say the least.
In this he is part of a joint British/US operation and is sent into rural Russia to provide invisible support to a Russian hoping to meet Putin to promote a more moderate agenda. Sadly there are those who don't want this to happen and Portman is forced out of the shadows...
This works on every level, an intelligent plot and strong characterisation. The plot works because it gives you the big picture and then the isolation of an operator surviving on his wits and training. And the plot doesn't take you where you think it will. I loved every page of this and the author deserves far greater recognition for delivering thrillers that are as good as the best out there.
As always the novel is short (250 pages) and so expensive for what you get, but it really is very good indeed.
In this he is part of a joint British/US operation and is sent into rural Russia to provide invisible support to a Russian hoping to meet Putin to promote a more moderate agenda. Sadly there are those who don't want this to happen and Portman is forced out of the shadows...
This works on every level, an intelligent plot and strong characterisation. The plot works because it gives you the big picture and then the isolation of an operator surviving on his wits and training. And the plot doesn't take you where you think it will. I loved every page of this and the author deserves far greater recognition for delivering thrillers that are as good as the best out there.
As always the novel is short (250 pages) and so expensive for what you get, but it really is very good indeed.
May 24, 2023
Fan of Vince Flynn's Mitch Rapp, bigger fan of Gray Man and the like easily helped me pick this title up. Marc Portman would fit right in among these types.
The book was perfunctory to be honest. More like a well prepared road trip with aggressors. The politics captured Russia authentically but the premise of Hard Cover seemed to miss the point. The focus felt more on the espionage, covert snooping, and behind the scenes manipulations of the environment than showcasing Watchman.
Had no idea there were two other books preceding this one. Figured I was missing something after Lindsey and Watchman had their re-introduction and Watchman was requesting specific team players, along with the implicit trusting of Tom Vale. I knew none of these folks and surmised there must be more to the backstory of the Watchman.
Within its genre, it was a serviceable story but nothing felt exciting or tension filled, nor struck me as notable. Aside from name-dropping Impaler, it came across as mundane and rudimentary.
Didn't get any sense of missing a good story from within the first two books, so I won't be seeking them out.
Would recommend for a flight or passing some travel time but nothing beyond.
Thanks for reading.
The book was perfunctory to be honest. More like a well prepared road trip with aggressors. The politics captured Russia authentically but the premise of Hard Cover seemed to miss the point. The focus felt more on the espionage, covert snooping, and behind the scenes manipulations of the environment than showcasing Watchman.
Had no idea there were two other books preceding this one. Figured I was missing something after Lindsey and Watchman had their re-introduction and Watchman was requesting specific team players, along with the implicit trusting of Tom Vale. I knew none of these folks and surmised there must be more to the backstory of the Watchman.
Within its genre, it was a serviceable story but nothing felt exciting or tension filled, nor struck me as notable. Aside from name-dropping Impaler, it came across as mundane and rudimentary.
Didn't get any sense of missing a good story from within the first two books, so I won't be seeking them out.
Would recommend for a flight or passing some travel time but nothing beyond.
Thanks for reading.
September 13, 2025
One of the things I like about Marc Portman aka Watchman, is he doesn't kill someone just for the fun of it. If it isn't necessary, then he walks away. I get that sometimes that could come back and bite you, but that's for another day in his eyes. He also acknowledges that he needs to eat and sleep and that running on empty will get you killed. Reading books like this also makes me realise I could never what he does. Oh I know people who do this kind of work are exceptionally well trained, but even so... I would spend so much time double guessing myself I'd get nothing done. Either that or I would be killed before I'd even got started!. Metaphorical hats off to anyone who does this type of work.
November 14, 2017
Another winner featuring Marc Portman. This time in northern Russia. Former associate of Putin wanting to talk to him being thwarted by Russian businessmen who like the staus quo, and will do anything to maintain it.
September 11, 2025
great series
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
October 2, 2025
Great Series
Having read all 3 books so far, I can say this is a very good series. The writing is crisp without wasted words, the dialogue realistic and the adventures skillfully plotted. I also appreciate that author Magson doesn’t use profanity gratuitously.
Having read all 3 books so far, I can say this is a very good series. The writing is crisp without wasted words, the dialogue realistic and the adventures skillfully plotted. I also appreciate that author Magson doesn’t use profanity gratuitously.
October 4, 2025
Another great Watchman novel, can’t wait for the next one
Another excellent storyline with an interesting and believable character. Well worth the read as are all in this series. Just wish they were longer so I’d have more hours of enjoyable reading from each.
Another excellent storyline with an interesting and believable character. Well worth the read as are all in this series. Just wish they were longer so I’d have more hours of enjoyable reading from each.
December 11, 2025
Great read
Anyone who likes Reacher, Sam Pope, John Milton, Gabriel Wolf et al will thoroughly enjoy this set of adventures with my new favourite hero Marc Portman. Fast paced, very descriptive, great story line, perfect escapism. Highly recommended.
Anyone who likes Reacher, Sam Pope, John Milton, Gabriel Wolf et al will thoroughly enjoy this set of adventures with my new favourite hero Marc Portman. Fast paced, very descriptive, great story line, perfect escapism. Highly recommended.
July 2, 2020
Enjoyable read - I liked the watchman character. I think it would make a good movie. Very mission impossible like genre.
December 26, 2023
Not as compelling as some of her s other books, including the first two books of this series.
June 28, 2016
Fast paced international thriller
Marc Portman is a freelance expert in security. It’s his job to assess risk and take the appropriate action. He’s very much hands on and likes to get them dirty. While enjoying a few days well earned break he is called to a meeting where there are representatives from MI6, CIA and the White House. Something big is clearly afoot and there is only one man for the job.
Leonid Tzorekov is an ex KGB officer who now spends his time in the West making money. He has links to Putin and his swansong is to return to Russia to meet clandestinely with the Russian President to persuade him that improved relations between Russia and the West would benefit all parties. All parties that is except a high powered group of Russian businessmen (the Wise Men0 who see Tzorekov as a traitor for leaving and who want to continue to benefit from the current comfortable status.
The Wise Men will do anything to prevent the meeting and Marc Portman’s job is to watch Tzorekov’s back without making his presence known. For this job his codename is Watchman.
This is the third in the Portman series but can be read as a stand alone novel as the few references to action in previous books do not detract from the understanding or enjoyment.
The plot is well formed and fast paced. It moves quickly from the US to Russia and then out into the wooded wilds. It hangs together well and is a real page turner. The Watchman knows his craft and there is no time when the reader might feel that his belief is stretched to the point of incredulity.
The characters are 3D and believable. It’s not just a question of black and white or good and evil. There are all shades in between. The ending is unusual and unexpected but it won’t come as a surprise to learn that our hero lives to fight another day.
Good holiday reading.
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
Marc Portman is a freelance expert in security. It’s his job to assess risk and take the appropriate action. He’s very much hands on and likes to get them dirty. While enjoying a few days well earned break he is called to a meeting where there are representatives from MI6, CIA and the White House. Something big is clearly afoot and there is only one man for the job.
Leonid Tzorekov is an ex KGB officer who now spends his time in the West making money. He has links to Putin and his swansong is to return to Russia to meet clandestinely with the Russian President to persuade him that improved relations between Russia and the West would benefit all parties. All parties that is except a high powered group of Russian businessmen (the Wise Men0 who see Tzorekov as a traitor for leaving and who want to continue to benefit from the current comfortable status.
The Wise Men will do anything to prevent the meeting and Marc Portman’s job is to watch Tzorekov’s back without making his presence known. For this job his codename is Watchman.
This is the third in the Portman series but can be read as a stand alone novel as the few references to action in previous books do not detract from the understanding or enjoyment.
The plot is well formed and fast paced. It moves quickly from the US to Russia and then out into the wooded wilds. It hangs together well and is a real page turner. The Watchman knows his craft and there is no time when the reader might feel that his belief is stretched to the point of incredulity.
The characters are 3D and believable. It’s not just a question of black and white or good and evil. There are all shades in between. The ending is unusual and unexpected but it won’t come as a surprise to learn that our hero lives to fight another day.
Good holiday reading.
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
November 4, 2016
I was given the opportunity to read Hard Cover via NetGalley and Severn House. This is my honest opinion of the book.
Hard Cover is the third book featuring Marc Portman, a close protection specialist who evaluates risks in hostile situations and acts accordingly. After rescuing the 13 year old daughter of a local federal judge from cartel kidnappers in Mexico, Marc gets a call from Tom Vale, a senior official from the UK's Secret Intelligence Service. High level officials from the CIA and the State Department want Portman (code name Watchman) to follow a former KGB officer with ties to Putin. After attempts have been made on his life, it is Watchman's job to be sure he gets back to Russia in one piece. With his trusted team watching his back stateside, Portman heads off, unseen and ready for any situation that might arise.
One of the greatest things about a spy thriller are the action sequences, and this book does not disappoint. There is not a lot of character development, but in a book about a covert operative who has to blend into his surroundings, you would not expect much. With a fast paced plot and a story arc that begs for a sequel, I highly anticipate the next book in the Marc Portman series. Although Hard Cover did not blow me away like the previous books, it was a good, steady read and has clearly set many possibilities in motion for the Watchman.
Hard Cover is the third book featuring Marc Portman, a close protection specialist who evaluates risks in hostile situations and acts accordingly. After rescuing the 13 year old daughter of a local federal judge from cartel kidnappers in Mexico, Marc gets a call from Tom Vale, a senior official from the UK's Secret Intelligence Service. High level officials from the CIA and the State Department want Portman (code name Watchman) to follow a former KGB officer with ties to Putin. After attempts have been made on his life, it is Watchman's job to be sure he gets back to Russia in one piece. With his trusted team watching his back stateside, Portman heads off, unseen and ready for any situation that might arise.
One of the greatest things about a spy thriller are the action sequences, and this book does not disappoint. There is not a lot of character development, but in a book about a covert operative who has to blend into his surroundings, you would not expect much. With a fast paced plot and a story arc that begs for a sequel, I highly anticipate the next book in the Marc Portman series. Although Hard Cover did not blow me away like the previous books, it was a good, steady read and has clearly set many possibilities in motion for the Watchman.
April 7, 2017
Brilliant!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews