The Virtue of Vengeance

by Brian McDonald

Jimmy Dawson has just learned the identity of the trucker who killed Katie Miller ten years ago, and kidnapped Hannah Reed a little over a year ago. DNA evidence links the two crimes to the same culprit — Bert Halston. Jimmy sets off on a cross-country journey to try to find Halston and put an end to his brutality against young women. But Jimmy and Clarence encounter an unexpected enemy in their pursuit of Halston.

In the meantime, Camilla Estrada has gone missing at the Arizona–Mexico border. Jimmy and the rest of The Defenders team are in a race against the clock to find Camilla. But this mission has deadly consequences for one of their own. Jimmy makes a promise to find the killer and put a bullet in his head. But is it a promise he can keep?

269 pages, Hardcover

Published October 28, 2025

About the author

Brian McDonald writes crime fiction that lingers in the gray areas – where right and wrong blur and every choice has a cost. He is the author of two self-published novels, The Defenders, and its sequel, The Virtue of Vengeance. Drawn to the darker edges of human behavior, he crafts thrillers that explore motive, morality, and the consequences of choice.

Influenced by current events and a fascination with human nature, Brian creates unique and compelling characters operating in ethically complex situations. He is currently working on the third book in the series – and probably overthinking the perfect plot twist.

When he’s not writing, he enjoys riding his Harley Street Glide, hiking with his dog, and playing golf. He lives in Bloomington, Illinois with his wife Cathy and their Italian Spinone, Franki.

Reviews

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jimmy and his colleagues from The Defenders are back combating evil in this engrossing tale of intrigue, trafficking and murder. The characters and their adventures kept me engaged throughout the book and now I'm looking forward to the 3rd book in the series. The Defenders was the first book in the series and introduces all of the characters but the author provides a prologue in Virtue of Vengeance to get us up to speed so this can be read as a stand-alone story.

[Scott Mool · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the second book written by Brian. Was fast paced and a page turner. Can't wait for the next in the series