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Jeff Bradley #2
The Mark of Halam
USS Ulysses: State-of-the-art nuclear submarine. Deterrent. Target.
When an Olympic medalist is the subject of an attempted assassination, former SAS trooper Jeff Bradley knows his past is once again casting a shadow over his new life. A note left by the assassin confirms his suspicions: Bradley made an enemy back in Kosovo, and the man is out for revenge. But Jeff knows the killer is not working alone: higher up the ranks sits Avni Leka, a terrorist warlord who will stop at nothing to achieve his bloody goal.
And it’s not just Bradley who is under threat. A hijacking leads him to sense something bigger is being planned—a plot that, if successful, will end thousands of innocent lives, and could light the touchpaper of global conflict.
He can’t allow it to happen. But events are spiralling out of control. Bradley knows he must reach the eye of the storm before it tears his world apart.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2015
234 people are currently reading
452 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Ryan
7 books86 followersThomas Ryan has been a soldier in a theatre of war, traded in Eastern Europe, trampled the jungles of Asia, and struggled through the trials of love and loss; ideal life experiences for a would be author. Schooled by professionals, who have helped him hone his literary skills, Ryan is quickly establishing himself as a skilled writer of thriller novels and short stories. He considers himself foremost, a story teller, a creator who has enthusiastically plunged his psyche into the world of creativity and fantasy. With the reader in mind he weaves colourful characters into the fabric of his riveting storylines. Taking readers on a thrilling journey is what motivates Ryan as a writer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 31, 2015
Good story.
Jeff Bradley is New Zealand vineyard owner, but his past from Kosovo and Afghanistan came to hunt him down. Nuclear submarine at the harbour, terrorist planning to destroy it.
Jeff Bradley is New Zealand vineyard owner, but his past from Kosovo and Afghanistan came to hunt him down. Nuclear submarine at the harbour, terrorist planning to destroy it.
June 30, 2016
The second Jeff Bradley novel from New Zealand author, Thomas Ryan, certainly made me really want to shunt my as yet unread copy of the first (The Field of Blackbirds) up in priority.
A thriller in construction, THE MARK OF HALAM is fast-paced, big-threat, enemies on all sides, one man to save the day in style. It helps that Jeff Bradley is a reluctant sort of a hero, dragged into the conflict initially when a good friend is threatened, and ultimately because there is a terrorist plot, and then there's something much more personal.
Setting THE MARK OF HALAM mostly in New Zealand, against the backdrop of that country's long-term anti-nuclear stance, making the terrorist target a nuclear powered submarine is an interesting undertaking. As with all thrillers of this nature there are aspects to the plot that you're just going to have to go with - a target like that staying put when the threat is so profound, the way that the defences are laid out, probably even some of the technical details which would pass most readers by completely. What matters here is that there are those few minor "moments" throughout, and none of them really threaten to drop the reader out of the storyline. Once invested, you are very much with Bradley until the end, come what may.
Given that this is a second novel in a series, not having read the first one yet didn't have any impact. Bradley's background and his personality are quickly understood. His role as all action hero nuanced enough to provide reasons for what he's doing regardless of whether or not the personal threat is something that is or isn't explored in the earlier book (no idea if that is the case as yet).
With a reasonable supporting cast, and a really good central hero figure, THE MARK OF HALAM is classic big threat / big risk action thriller. The setting of the harbour, the political background and even the inclusion of a winery, created a good sense of place, time and society in which to act out all of the elements of the story. All of which definitely means the first book needs to be read as soon as possible.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
A thriller in construction, THE MARK OF HALAM is fast-paced, big-threat, enemies on all sides, one man to save the day in style. It helps that Jeff Bradley is a reluctant sort of a hero, dragged into the conflict initially when a good friend is threatened, and ultimately because there is a terrorist plot, and then there's something much more personal.
Setting THE MARK OF HALAM mostly in New Zealand, against the backdrop of that country's long-term anti-nuclear stance, making the terrorist target a nuclear powered submarine is an interesting undertaking. As with all thrillers of this nature there are aspects to the plot that you're just going to have to go with - a target like that staying put when the threat is so profound, the way that the defences are laid out, probably even some of the technical details which would pass most readers by completely. What matters here is that there are those few minor "moments" throughout, and none of them really threaten to drop the reader out of the storyline. Once invested, you are very much with Bradley until the end, come what may.
Given that this is a second novel in a series, not having read the first one yet didn't have any impact. Bradley's background and his personality are quickly understood. His role as all action hero nuanced enough to provide reasons for what he's doing regardless of whether or not the personal threat is something that is or isn't explored in the earlier book (no idea if that is the case as yet).
With a reasonable supporting cast, and a really good central hero figure, THE MARK OF HALAM is classic big threat / big risk action thriller. The setting of the harbour, the political background and even the inclusion of a winery, created a good sense of place, time and society in which to act out all of the elements of the story. All of which definitely means the first book needs to be read as soon as possible.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
February 28, 2016
From the cover: When an Olympic medalist is the subject of an attempted assassination, former SAS trooper Jeff Bradley knows his past is once again casting a shadow over his new life. A note left by the assassin confirms his suspicions: Bradley made an enemy back in Kosovo, and the man is out for revenge. But Jeff knows the killer is not working alone: higher up the ranks sits Avni Leka, a terrorist warlord who will stop at nothing to achieve his bloody goal. And it’s not just Bradley who is under threat. A hijacking leads him to sense something bigger is being planned—a plot that, if successful, will end thousands of innocent lives, and could light the touchpaper of global conflict.
I enjoyed reading this book from chapter 1 to the end. This book is second in a series for the character Jeff Bradley, but the first book I have read. The book has an interesting group of characters throughout. The book is fast paced with lots of twists and turns. The only thing I didn’t like was reading that the metal on sub was several feet thick-that didn’t make any sense, but it didn’t take away from the storyline. This is a good thriller.
I received the book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
I enjoyed reading this book from chapter 1 to the end. This book is second in a series for the character Jeff Bradley, but the first book I have read. The book has an interesting group of characters throughout. The book is fast paced with lots of twists and turns. The only thing I didn’t like was reading that the metal on sub was several feet thick-that didn’t make any sense, but it didn’t take away from the storyline. This is a good thriller.
I received the book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
June 24, 2017
The Mark of halam
A good action thriller with plenty of the chases and firefights one might expect. The hero manages to get kicked around quite a bit as he discovered you don't respond as well or fast as you age. Amazing how well the terrorists send to work together to achieve success when there is an unexpected need for a change in plans.
A good action thriller with plenty of the chases and firefights one might expect. The hero manages to get kicked around quite a bit as he discovered you don't respond as well or fast as you age. Amazing how well the terrorists send to work together to achieve success when there is an unexpected need for a change in plans.
July 6, 2017
Straight forward intrigue
An unwieldy governing structure, bright but pushy reporter, reluctant cop, and frustrated special forces retiree are forced to work together in this fine thriller. The plot is believable - yes, it could really happen - as the threat is not far-fetched. A very entertaining read.
An unwieldy governing structure, bright but pushy reporter, reluctant cop, and frustrated special forces retiree are forced to work together in this fine thriller. The plot is believable - yes, it could really happen - as the threat is not far-fetched. A very entertaining read.
October 27, 2017
Fast-paced and action-filled
Except for the premise that a US nuclear sub would dock at a wharf in New Zealand, when they anchor out in deep water in the US, the story was very compelling. The main characters had a variety of backgrounds and were paired up differently in several situations, making the view points and predicted outcomes more unpredictable.
Except for the premise that a US nuclear sub would dock at a wharf in New Zealand, when they anchor out in deep water in the US, the story was very compelling. The main characters had a variety of backgrounds and were paired up differently in several situations, making the view points and predicted outcomes more unpredictable.
April 17, 2023
Another exciting thriller featuring ex SAS soldier Jeff Bradley. Once again he is drawn into events that are our with his control and has to use his old skills to stop a major disaster.
The storyline is good with 2 of 3 threads which align quite neatly at the end of the book. However it would seem there’s still more to come.
The storyline is good with 2 of 3 threads which align quite neatly at the end of the book. However it would seem there’s still more to come.
June 8, 2017
Another great story
I'm really liking Jeff, he's more like a real person with grit than an all-around superman that goes around unharmed. I'm looking forward to the next round with Jeff.
I'm really liking Jeff, he's more like a real person with grit than an all-around superman that goes around unharmed. I'm looking forward to the next round with Jeff.
June 23, 2017
Former hero brought into the fray
Retired ops man brought back into the world of terrorism and evil men. Strong male with great instincts and perceptive thinking. This "Down Under" thriller is fast paced and engaging.
Retired ops man brought back into the world of terrorism and evil men. Strong male with great instincts and perceptive thinking. This "Down Under" thriller is fast paced and engaging.
January 9, 2019
Good read
I gave this a four still a good book
It took a while to catch on with the story
Was about a nuclear submarine coming into New Zealand
Terrorists were out to stop the submarine coming into port
I did enjoy the story have not read any other books by this author
I gave this a four still a good book
It took a while to catch on with the story
Was about a nuclear submarine coming into New Zealand
Terrorists were out to stop the submarine coming into port
I did enjoy the story have not read any other books by this author
November 19, 2023
Every Bit As Good As The First
The second instalment of the Jeff Bradley thrillers was equally as good as the first. Good characters, good story and good research make this a gripping story.
Looking forward to part three.
The second instalment of the Jeff Bradley thrillers was equally as good as the first. Good characters, good story and good research make this a gripping story.
Looking forward to part three.
December 4, 2023
I haven't read any of Thomas Ryan's works that I can recall but I enjoyed this one and set In NZ which was refreshing, being in Australia's backyard. Plenty of twists and turns and you actually see this really happening in reality. I'll be trying some more.
March 23, 2017
A Good Thriller
Good to read a book set somewhere different - New Zealand ( & specifically Auckland) - and the setting certainly plays a party in the narrative. Recommended.
Good to read a book set somewhere different - New Zealand ( & specifically Auckland) - and the setting certainly plays a party in the narrative. Recommended.
May 15, 2017
Thomas Ryan spins a good thriller. Love the location and the story. Will definitelyy read more from the Jeff Bradley series.
May 18, 2017
Good thriller
A good thriller set in an unlikely locale ( New Zealand). The hero is an ex terrorist hunter who finds that he cannot escape his former life
A good thriller set in an unlikely locale ( New Zealand). The hero is an ex terrorist hunter who finds that he cannot escape his former life
June 10, 2017
Good Read
It keeps your interest and there is not to much unbelievable actions, it is worth the time to read it
It keeps your interest and there is not to much unbelievable actions, it is worth the time to read it
July 4, 2017
Riveting
The Jeff Bradley series is a thrill ride. Builds up the tension and just when it's over, leaves you wanting more.
The Jeff Bradley series is a thrill ride. Builds up the tension and just when it's over, leaves you wanting more.
July 21, 2017
Get off the green
This was a good place to finish the chase. I am sure that the club mgr would have done just as it was written. Jeff is a good main man
This was a good place to finish the chase. I am sure that the club mgr would have done just as it was written. Jeff is a good main man
August 20, 2017
Great
Agood read very interesting It was good to be in New Zealand it made a pleasant change Very gr8 bu
Agood read very interesting It was good to be in New Zealand it made a pleasant change Very gr8 bu
August 26, 2017
Hard to put down
Very good book & a easy read. Kept my interest till the end. First time reading this author & will download his work again.
Very good book & a easy read. Kept my interest till the end. First time reading this author & will download his work again.
September 23, 2017
The Mark of Halam
A very good book. It flows nicely and leads you on a great adventure. To a!l who read this, and like good adventure fiction. This book is for you.
A very good book. It flows nicely and leads you on a great adventure. To a!l who read this, and like good adventure fiction. This book is for you.
December 18, 2017
Interesting but predictable
Easy to follow, but predictable plot and characters with hero always invincible to all.
Quick read when traveling or on beach
Easy to follow, but predictable plot and characters with hero always invincible to all.
Quick read when traveling or on beach
September 25, 2021
Exciting times
I loved reading this book it is very easy to find a solution that will make you keep reading about the story
I loved reading this book it is very easy to find a solution that will make you keep reading about the story
July 6, 2024
not worth the effort
Very seldom I give up but this was one so poorly written it was a waste of my eyeballs .
Very seldom I give up but this was one so poorly written it was a waste of my eyeballs .
March 21, 2017
Action oriented
Sometimes the action was so quick the story line was lost. All in all a good read. On to the next in series.
Sometimes the action was so quick the story line was lost. All in all a good read. On to the next in series.
August 26, 2015
“The Mark of Halam” eBook was published in 2015 (August) and was written by Thomas Ryan (http://www.thomasryanwriter.com). This is Mr. Ryan’s second novel.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘R’ as there are instances of Violence. This Thriller novel is set primarily in contemporary New Zealand. The primary character is Jeff Bradley, who has retired from the SAS and now has a vineyard in New Zealand.
Life has settled down to a more normal pace after Bradley’s exploits in the first novel of the series, “The Field of Blackbirds”. There is an attempt on the life of a woman Bradley knows. Sudden;y Bradley, and his close friends, are being threatened by the brother of a man he had to kill back in Kosovo.
Complicating matters, the first US nuclear submarine is about to make a port of call in New Zealand. Many protestors are out in force. Soon it becomes evident that Bradley is only a secondary target. There is a group of terrorists in New Zealand and they plan an attack on the US submarine.
As Bradley seeks information on those hunting him he repeatedly steps into the path of danger. Even though he is long separated from the SAS, he still feels the need to personally do every thing he can to stop the terrorists or die trying.
I enjoyed the 8.5 hours I spent reading the novel. The novel picks up a short time after the first novel concludes, and while there are characters in common, I think it would be a good stand-alone read. I think that the author improved between the first book and this one. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘R’ as there are instances of Violence. This Thriller novel is set primarily in contemporary New Zealand. The primary character is Jeff Bradley, who has retired from the SAS and now has a vineyard in New Zealand.
Life has settled down to a more normal pace after Bradley’s exploits in the first novel of the series, “The Field of Blackbirds”. There is an attempt on the life of a woman Bradley knows. Sudden;y Bradley, and his close friends, are being threatened by the brother of a man he had to kill back in Kosovo.
Complicating matters, the first US nuclear submarine is about to make a port of call in New Zealand. Many protestors are out in force. Soon it becomes evident that Bradley is only a secondary target. There is a group of terrorists in New Zealand and they plan an attack on the US submarine.
As Bradley seeks information on those hunting him he repeatedly steps into the path of danger. Even though he is long separated from the SAS, he still feels the need to personally do every thing he can to stop the terrorists or die trying.
I enjoyed the 8.5 hours I spent reading the novel. The novel picks up a short time after the first novel concludes, and while there are characters in common, I think it would be a good stand-alone read. I think that the author improved between the first book and this one. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
October 31, 2016
Thomas Ryan has acquired a reputation as an excellent author of thrillers, and it is a reputation that is well-deserved. This novel is a worthy addition to his increasing list of novels. He draws and develops his characters with depth. The author’s knowledge and experience of military practices, gleaned from his time in the armed forces and from the input of military veterans he knows, plays a role in forming the background for the tale, but I think credit should also be given to his extensive research of his subject matter. These elements make his story strong, credible and exciting. It is a page-turner with a fast pace and several facets to the storyline, yet it always remains approachable and easy to follow. I was drawn into the action from the start.
Jeff Bradley and Brian Cunningham, both ex-Special Forces veterans, battle against time and personal enemies to prevent terrorists causing mayhem in Auckland, New Zealand. It is refreshing to find an adventure thriller set in a country like New Zealand, and since I am in the UK I felt very much at home with the lively atmosphere, the banter and the believable interaction between the main characters and the journalist, Barbara Heywood, and the police officer, Moana Te Kanawa, with whom they have to work or sometimes hold at arm’s length.
I did find I was drawn to Brian Cunningham rather than Jeff Bradley, as the more flawed personality, but that was my personal choice and the flaws and quirks of all the characters are portrayed in a natural way. On the whole a very satisfying read and more than deserving of a five star rating.
Jeff Bradley and Brian Cunningham, both ex-Special Forces veterans, battle against time and personal enemies to prevent terrorists causing mayhem in Auckland, New Zealand. It is refreshing to find an adventure thriller set in a country like New Zealand, and since I am in the UK I felt very much at home with the lively atmosphere, the banter and the believable interaction between the main characters and the journalist, Barbara Heywood, and the police officer, Moana Te Kanawa, with whom they have to work or sometimes hold at arm’s length.
I did find I was drawn to Brian Cunningham rather than Jeff Bradley, as the more flawed personality, but that was my personal choice and the flaws and quirks of all the characters are portrayed in a natural way. On the whole a very satisfying read and more than deserving of a five star rating.
February 11, 2017
Brilliant.
This book has it all. The skill used to run all the different aspects of this story together is fabulous. The main character is well written and the plot is a work of art. The idea of using two different nationalities of protagonists is a twist worthy of the likes of Alistair MacLean. There were a few typos, but these were easily overlooked. Altogether a thoroughly enjoyable read.
This book has it all. The skill used to run all the different aspects of this story together is fabulous. The main character is well written and the plot is a work of art. The idea of using two different nationalities of protagonists is a twist worthy of the likes of Alistair MacLean. There were a few typos, but these were easily overlooked. Altogether a thoroughly enjoyable read.
September 21, 2015
Jeff Bradley ex SAS now retired and running a winery is shocked when his close friend and Olympic athlete, Mary becomes the target of an assassin. Determined not to rely on police for her security, Jeff starts to dig deeper with aid of some old contacts from his service days. An old adversary from his tour of Kosovo is discovered to have entered the country, and links are made to the forthcoming visit of a US nuclear submarine following the change in the anti-nuclear law in New Zealand. The question to be answered is this a revenge mission or something much bigger, Jeff motivated by self preservation leaves no stone unturned to find out. This is a great fast paced exciting thriller normally associated with special services and does not disappoint.
January 5, 2016
The Mark of Halam
Thomas Ryan is an excellent story teller. This one introduces Jeff Bradley, ex-military, currently the proud owner of a vintage wine establishment, who finds himself up to his eyeballs in finding out who is involved in a terrorist attack on a U.S. nuclear submarine in the neutral harbors of New Zealand. Bradley's efforts not only paint a target on his back, but on his family and friends as well. Ryan takes great efforts to highlight Bradley's background and the experiences in his past that led to his present situation. The twists and turns will keep you turning the pages to the conclusion. Great reading and writing.
Thomas Ryan is an excellent story teller. This one introduces Jeff Bradley, ex-military, currently the proud owner of a vintage wine establishment, who finds himself up to his eyeballs in finding out who is involved in a terrorist attack on a U.S. nuclear submarine in the neutral harbors of New Zealand. Bradley's efforts not only paint a target on his back, but on his family and friends as well. Ryan takes great efforts to highlight Bradley's background and the experiences in his past that led to his present situation. The twists and turns will keep you turning the pages to the conclusion. Great reading and writing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews