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Never Forgive: Jack Mercer Crime Action Thriller Book 1
THEY KILLED HIS TEAM. TOOK HIS EX. LEAVING JACK MERCER ALIVE WAS THEIR MISTAKE.
NEVER FORGIVE is the explosive first Jack Mercer thriller, packed with fast-paced action, multilayered betrayal, international intrigue, and deadly twists.
Fans of Lee Child, Vince Flynn, Tom Clancy, and Robert Ludlum will recognize an action hero who doesn’t follow orders, doesn’t play by the rules, and doesn’t stop when the truth gets dangerous.
Ex-Fed. Ex-Army Ranger. Jack Mercer’s final mission in Amsterdam with a JSOC special operations team and the CIA ended in catastrophic failure.
His team was wiped out. His ex was taken. He knows he was betrayed. He just doesn’t know by whom.
But his drive for revenge uncovers a deeper conspiracy stretching across continents and threatening the balance of world power.
The CIA wants his help. Mercer doesn’t trust their intel. He doesn’t trust anyone.
Except himself.
When he finds the people who betrayed him, his justice will be unforgiving.
And delivered stone cold.
NEVER FORGIVE is the explosive first Jack Mercer thriller, packed with fast-paced action, multilayered betrayal, international intrigue, and deadly twists.
Fans of Lee Child, Vince Flynn, Tom Clancy, and Robert Ludlum will recognize an action hero who doesn’t follow orders, doesn’t play by the rules, and doesn’t stop when the truth gets dangerous.
475 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 30, 2026
Mercer is on a personal mission—some might call it vigilante justice, but for Mercer, it's simply revenge. It might seem strange for a former FBI agent to embrace such a path, but his reasons are deeply personal and gradually revealed throughout the story. Mercer's life after leaving the Bureau is directly connected to his presence in Amsterdam. Unexpectedly, he crosses paths with Sophie Alder, whose offer to work at Barnhart Fine Rugs could provide the connections Mercer needs to accomplish his goals. His instincts and training are woven into the fabric of the man, yet one wonders if that will be enough, as there are others on hunts of their own.
From the very first paragraphs, I was drawn into a whirlwind of action and suspense, spanning California, Tehran, Langley, and Amsterdam. Betrayal, revenge, greed, power, and conspiracy are intricately woven through each setting, building relentless tension. Rather than wondering if these explosive forces will collide, the reader knows it is only a matter of when—and when they do, the consequences won't just endanger a select few, but threaten to reshape the world in a high-stakes battle of good versus evil, the powerless against the powerful.
This is a gripping thriller, with each scene distinct and captivating as you discover every character's motivation, personality, and intent. The atmosphere remains taut throughout, and the author crafts each moment to invite the reader to draw conclusions—only to upend those assumptions as new layers are revealed. The narrative compels you to turn pages quickly, eager to unravel the next twist, yet simultaneously makes you want to slow down so you don't miss a detail. By the end, the intricate web is tighter than you ever imagined, delivering a high-stakes climax that leaves a lasting impression.
This is a dramatic, five-star read of the highest caliber that launches an exciting new series—a series I can't wait to continue.
Reviewer's Note: Access a digital copy of the Prequel, "Broken Trust" novella — the action starts immediately and gives you a firsthand look at Jack Mercer's character. The download is available at this link:
https://lanecarey.myflodesk.com/offer
From the very first paragraphs, I was drawn into a whirlwind of action and suspense, spanning California, Tehran, Langley, and Amsterdam. Betrayal, revenge, greed, power, and conspiracy are intricately woven through each setting, building relentless tension. Rather than wondering if these explosive forces will collide, the reader knows it is only a matter of when—and when they do, the consequences won't just endanger a select few, but threaten to reshape the world in a high-stakes battle of good versus evil, the powerless against the powerful.
This is a gripping thriller, with each scene distinct and captivating as you discover every character's motivation, personality, and intent. The atmosphere remains taut throughout, and the author crafts each moment to invite the reader to draw conclusions—only to upend those assumptions as new layers are revealed. The narrative compels you to turn pages quickly, eager to unravel the next twist, yet simultaneously makes you want to slow down so you don't miss a detail. By the end, the intricate web is tighter than you ever imagined, delivering a high-stakes climax that leaves a lasting impression.
This is a dramatic, five-star read of the highest caliber that launches an exciting new series—a series I can't wait to continue.
Reviewer's Note: Access a digital copy of the Prequel, "Broken Trust" novella — the action starts immediately and gives you a firsthand look at Jack Mercer's character. The download is available at this link:
https://lanecarey.myflodesk.com/offer
June 27, 2026
“Never Forget” by Lane Carey is a very good novel. It is a story about a man trying to find his friend and also find the people who attacked and killed his team while working with the CIA. The story is primarily set in the Netherlands. There is a secondary plot in which a weapons dealer is trying to auction off a viral weapon to the highest bidder. Capturing the designer of the viral weapon had been the mission he had been on when his team was killed. The CIA ropes him back in to try and stop this auction. There is another subplot within Iran involving this auction and an escaped agent who tries to defect to the CIA.
August 30, 2026
Such a gripping, sharp reading.
From the beginning, the novel hooks you and doesn't let you go. The fast pace, the different plotlines, and the enigma of "how does everything connect?" kept me easily engaged.
Furthermore, the immersion is incredible. The thought behind the character design is palpable, as well as the consideration behind the plot. Just when you think you are making major progress, the novel hits you: you were seeing the tip of the iceberg.
The climax itself, alone, hits you. In fact, it felt like there were two climaxes that ensured the action had its sharp edge, an unexpected turn of events, and even emotional damage. I couldn't have asked for more.
From the beginning, the novel hooks you and doesn't let you go. The fast pace, the different plotlines, and the enigma of "how does everything connect?" kept me easily engaged.
Furthermore, the immersion is incredible. The thought behind the character design is palpable, as well as the consideration behind the plot. Just when you think you are making major progress, the novel hits you: you were seeing the tip of the iceberg.
The climax itself, alone, hits you. In fact, it felt like there were two climaxes that ensured the action had its sharp edge, an unexpected turn of events, and even emotional damage. I couldn't have asked for more.
June 23, 2026
Neo-political thriller with non-stop action.
Jack Mercer thrillers are very similar to the Jack Reacher thrillers. Mercer is retired from the FBI but his adventures are far from over. He has the skills and he's ready to use them. He's on an international pursuit of revenge for previous wrongs, the details of which come out gradually in the non-stop action adventure. I had some trouble with a the level of violence, so trigger warnings apply here. But for anyone who enjoys this type of neo-political thriller with non-stop action, this one's for you.
Jack Mercer thrillers are very similar to the Jack Reacher thrillers. Mercer is retired from the FBI but his adventures are far from over. He has the skills and he's ready to use them. He's on an international pursuit of revenge for previous wrongs, the details of which come out gradually in the non-stop action adventure. I had some trouble with a the level of violence, so trigger warnings apply here. But for anyone who enjoys this type of neo-political thriller with non-stop action, this one's for you.
June 22, 2026
Rock em rack em and roll em
So many events in so many places with so many people! Will everyone wind up where they need to be when they need to be there? If you love lots of action and blood and guts you'll love this story. But don't plan on reading it in a day.
So many events in so many places with so many people! Will everyone wind up where they need to be when they need to be there? If you love lots of action and blood and guts you'll love this story. But don't plan on reading it in a day.
June 18, 2026
A Thrill per page
Solid thriller with interesting characters, creative problem-solving and many excellent twists. Morally complex characters and well-plotted story. I’m glad it’s a series.
Solid thriller with interesting characters, creative problem-solving and many excellent twists. Morally complex characters and well-plotted story. I’m glad it’s a series.
June 12, 2026
Never Forgive
This story is an action packed page turner. It reminds me of a cross between Jason Bourne and Mission Impossible and kept my attention throughout.
At no point was it predictable, yet I kept guessing anyway. This is book one of a series, and this entry is a strong one. I really enjoyed that as gritty as the story is, Jack Mercer does his best to do the right thing.
He’s well trained and incredibly capable, but he makes mistakes nonetheless. I appreciated the realness of his character.
If you love action adventure thrillers, you’ll love this.
This story is an action packed page turner. It reminds me of a cross between Jason Bourne and Mission Impossible and kept my attention throughout.
At no point was it predictable, yet I kept guessing anyway. This is book one of a series, and this entry is a strong one. I really enjoyed that as gritty as the story is, Jack Mercer does his best to do the right thing.
He’s well trained and incredibly capable, but he makes mistakes nonetheless. I appreciated the realness of his character.
If you love action adventure thrillers, you’ll love this.
June 15, 2026
Page Turner Global Conspiracy Thriller
Haunted by a mission gone wrong, retired CIA agent Jack Mercer traveled to Amsterdam to find answers. Who killed his team. Who took the virologist. Who kidnapped his ex- girl friend.
High paced thrills as Jack faces revenge, betrayal, and final justice.
"War's not a glitch with the system. It is the system.
Haunted by a mission gone wrong, retired CIA agent Jack Mercer traveled to Amsterdam to find answers. Who killed his team. Who took the virologist. Who kidnapped his ex- girl friend.
High paced thrills as Jack faces revenge, betrayal, and final justice.
"War's not a glitch with the system. It is the system.
June 10, 2026
Hooked from chapter one with intrigue, murder, and questionable identities. The author does a good job developing the characters and the storyline. There are twists and turns to keep you trying to figure out just exactly who Jack Mercer can trust. The storyline moves quickly and keeps your engaged.
Recommend reading and look forward to the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Recommend reading and look forward to the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 1, 2026
Yeah I need book 2 now. That was so good. Just non stop…. everything. Action, thrills, betrayals, secrets. So so good. And I KNEW something was up with her. I didn't expect it to be the way it was at the end. As far as how far into it she was but mannnn. I really love Jack's character. And this book, I'm not going to lie, is almost too realistic. If you take a good look at the world around us right now, it's scarily close. So that adds another element to things. But I enjoyed it so much. I'm so looking forward to book 2! Highly recommend
June 7, 2026
Buckle your seatbelts and get ready. It's going to be a rough ride. Jack Mercer is a take-no-prisoners, one-man demolition team who is determined to make those who have wronged his team pay. (Yes, it's a widely used trope, but it's widely used because in the right hands, it works. And Lane Carey's are the right hands.) There is the usual "beat 'em up", "shoot 'em up", "blow 'em up" action that you would expect with this type of action thriller, and it doesn't disappoint. I will admit that Mr. Carey threw me a few curveballs that I should have been expecting, but wasn't. So, that's a good thing. Once the story grabs your attention, you don't want to put it down. I highly recommend it and can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.
June 10, 2026
Fun and fast-paced
This is a novel with all the tropes you would expect from a good thriller, which makes it a fun read overall. Jack Mercer is the hero with a trauma in search for revenge. He is decisive and ruthless. No time for hesitation or double guessing. So you can’t count on him to get out of trouble with a bang.
The last part felt a bit rushed, and a bit predictable. But for most of the book, the author keeps you engaged.
This is a novel with all the tropes you would expect from a good thriller, which makes it a fun read overall. Jack Mercer is the hero with a trauma in search for revenge. He is decisive and ruthless. No time for hesitation or double guessing. So you can’t count on him to get out of trouble with a bang.
The last part felt a bit rushed, and a bit predictable. But for most of the book, the author keeps you engaged.
June 29, 2026
Never Forgive by Lane Carey grabbed my attention from page one and never let go. This was a smart, fast-paced international espionage thriller filled with intrigue and suspense. I really enjoyed how intelligent the story felt while still moving at an engaging pace. A great pick for readers who enjoy thrillers that keep the momentum going.
June 16, 2026
well written
This book caught my interest from the very start. It is well written and definitely worth your time. Looking forward to the next one.
This book caught my interest from the very start. It is well written and definitely worth your time. Looking forward to the next one.
July 12, 2026
Excellent, loved it, will be reading the next one.
September 24, 2026
Never Forgive pulls no punches, and it starts with a bang, literally. If you like your thrillers fast, raw, and exciting, then this is the series for you. Yes, Lane Carey’s writing is not full of imagery, and he makes no pretence at writing that will change your life, but if you want hours of guilty pleasure, then his characters, settings and plots deliver these in spades.
Ex-police, ex-soldier, Jack Mercer is a man set on achieving justice for his team, and this takes him to the Netherlands. He is the anti-hero that most men crave to be, and he does not hold back in his quest to discover who betrayed him.
Ex-police, ex-soldier, Jack Mercer is a man set on achieving justice for his team, and this takes him to the Netherlands. He is the anti-hero that most men crave to be, and he does not hold back in his quest to discover who betrayed him.
August 24, 2026
This was a decent read. Very predictable. The main character seems to be trying to me a “Reacher” type of good guy. I will give the next book a chance and see how it goes.
August 23, 2026
Very good revenge tale. Strong characters and realistic dialogue.
August 18, 2026
Never. Forgive
Slow start but action and intrigue right till the last chapter kept your attention all the time look forward to reading more
Slow start but action and intrigue right till the last chapter kept your attention all the time look forward to reading more
May 31, 2026
This is a terrific start to a series. It really has everything. An Iranian woman trying to take down the regime from the inside but ends up defecting, an evil guy with an evil plan involving a virus set to wipe out specific people, and an ex agent who is in Amsterdam to tie up some legal stuff related to a relative. This agent is Jack Mercer who is tasked to find out what is really going on in a business owned by his relative and who finds himself dragged into the overall virus scheme.
He is reluctantly brought into the CIA operation to help find the virus and the people involved and to ultimately save the day. It is not so straightforward though and I liked the total mistrust Jack has for everyone and everything. It made things more interesting and I knew the story would not progress smoothly. So it proved and there's some great action throughout.
It's a long enough book but there's no padding and I found each separate thread riveting until a very satisfying climax. I look forward to seeing what Jack gets dragged into next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
He is reluctantly brought into the CIA operation to help find the virus and the people involved and to ultimately save the day. It is not so straightforward though and I liked the total mistrust Jack has for everyone and everything. It made things more interesting and I knew the story would not progress smoothly. So it proved and there's some great action throughout.
It's a long enough book but there's no padding and I found each separate thread riveting until a very satisfying climax. I look forward to seeing what Jack gets dragged into next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 27, 2026
If you are looking for a fast-paced thriller in the vein of Reacher, Jason Bourne, or Mission Impossible, this should scratch your itch pretty well. The book also ends up being pretty timely with all of the dangerous political and military turmoil going on in Iran and the Mid East right now, so it aligns with where many folks' attention is being pointed in real news stories at this very moment. The different global focal points are done pretty well. If anything negative could be said about the book, my only complaint is that the character, his name, and the general tropes have been done quite a bit. However, if you are new to CIA or conspiracy thrillers, or if this is your exact favorite genre, you won't be disappointed at all. The book is fast paced with enough details and twists to keep it interesting, so it rarely lags. Overall, if you want a new political thriller, this one fits nicely and the protagonist is cool enough to seem real, yet resourceful enough to seem legendary when the timing requires it. I can see why the author is involved with other entertainment projects in a similar vein.
June 3, 2026
This appears to be a new author who has done a very good job of an action book that didn't miss a beat. This is an absolute page turner which had me wondering who could be trusted and it turns out, not many.
I like the reluctant hero, he's addictive and I look forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free advance review copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I like the reluctant hero, he's addictive and I look forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free advance review copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
June 19, 2026
This was an ok book !
This was an ok book but it wasn't as good as the other ones I have read I hope if it is a next one it will be better than this one! This was a great series up until this one!
This was an ok book but it wasn't as good as the other ones I have read I hope if it is a next one it will be better than this one! This was a great series up until this one!
August 17, 2026
An outstanding debut!
This was a really great read, an outstanding debut by this author.
It had everything that a great thriller needs. Plot was really strong, well written, with different story threads that all fit together very well. Characters were all interesting and well developed, especially the protagonist, Jack Mercer. The author's portrayal of Jack was so well done, and made you identify with him and root for him. The action scenes were intense.
I liked the way the author started off slowly, which allowed time to really develop the plot and characters before the action picked up in the second half of the book.
Overall, an outstanding debut thriller, which I highly recommend. I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
This was a really great read, an outstanding debut by this author.
It had everything that a great thriller needs. Plot was really strong, well written, with different story threads that all fit together very well. Characters were all interesting and well developed, especially the protagonist, Jack Mercer. The author's portrayal of Jack was so well done, and made you identify with him and root for him. The action scenes were intense.
I liked the way the author started off slowly, which allowed time to really develop the plot and characters before the action picked up in the second half of the book.
Overall, an outstanding debut thriller, which I highly recommend. I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
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June 21, 2026I was pulled into this story from the first page and it didn’t let go! There is plenty of action, layers of deception and betrayal. A gripping fast paced read.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews