His Revenge

by John W. Howell

America loves John Cannon, its newest hero, and the President wants to present him with the highest civilian medal for bravery for saving the Annapolis midshipman from a terrorist plot to destroy them. While in Washington for the award ceremony, John unwillingly becomes an accomplice in another plan by the same group to attack the credibility of the US President and the stability of the worldwide oil market. There is no way out as John either becomes a traitor to America or causes thousands of innocent people to die if he refuses.
The second John J Cannon Thriller moves from a barrier Island off the coast of Texas to Washington DC, then to Northern California, and finally to Ecuador. John is on the receiving end of an offer he cannot, refuse. His avowed enemy Matt Jacobs now wants John to help him shake the reputation of the US in the world political arena. If John refuses, Matt plans to murder innocent Americans including John's latest relationship. John's only way out is to pretend to go along with the plan and hope for a miracle.

Genres: Thriller, Suspense

282 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2015

About the author

John W, Howell began his writing as a full-time occupation after an extensive business career. His specialty is thriller fiction novels, but John also writes poetry and short stories. His first book, My GRL, introduces the exciting adventures of the book's central character, John J. Cannon. The second Cannon novel, His Revenge, continues the adventure, while the final book in the trilogy, Our Justice, launched in September 2016. Circumstances of Childhood in October 1st 2017. The fifth book, The Contract co-authored with Gwen M. Plano was launched the week of June 4th, 2018.
John’s sixth book, Eternal Road – The Final Stop, launched in September 2020. In search of their eternal home, Sam and James discover a threat to human existence. They also encounter the prince of darkness. The question is, can they save humankind and their eternal souls? John’s latest book is The Last Drive, a sequel to The Eternal Road. Once again, James and Sam must confront Lucifer in order to save not only their souls but those of two others. Lucifer tests them to the limit, and the challenge they face may be more than they can handle.

John’s latest is Detour on the Eternal Road where Sam an James are called into action to thwart Lucifer’s designs on making Sam his Queen, as well as, save the world from a devastating war that would mean the end to humankind. All books are available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.All books are available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.

John lives in the Austin, Texas area with his wife and their spoiled rescue pets.

Reviews

[Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story does take a little time to get into since it begins with John Cannon recovering from injuries sustained in his previous adventure. Since it was a temporary eye injury, there was a lot of focus on other senses. This made for an interesting opener, but I will admit that I did hit a point where I wanted things to move a bit faster. This was about a chapter before someone hit the action button because the pace really picks up after the first gunshot.

I really liked how John Cannon came across as a guy who lacks combat experience and knowledge. In some situations, it means he’s almost useless. Other times, it forces him to think on his feet and take actions that I found very believable. He doesn’t go into the adventure like an action hero, but more like a man who has stumbled into a bad situation. It made him fairly relatable at times, especially since you’re viewing everything through his eyes. So, you know that he isn’t comfortable or completely sure of himself. In fact, I never got a feeling of confidence from him that made me think he would get through unscathed, which I really enjoyed.

One thing that did catch me off-guard was how much I truly despised the villains. The way Jacobs and Winther were written just boiled my blood. It wasn’t that they were pure evil, but there was just this smarmy arrogance that irritated me. There was no way I would want to see these guys get redeemed and every appearance had me hoping that someone would smack them around. The desire to see these two get what’s coming to them became a driving force for me to keep reading. Not sure if that’s a noble reason, but you definitely get your money’s worth if you’re looking for villains.

I would like to say more about the story, but I find that’s hard to do without leaving spoilers. There are plenty of twists and turns that got me wondering what would happen until the very end. So, there’s plenty of suspense as soon as the leash is taken off the story.

[Bill Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book without realising the story follows on from an earlier book. However, there is enough back story to still make this a good standalone read. This is a real page turner and I liked the hero - John Cannon, which is always important to my enjoyment of a book. I also enjoyed the other characters especially Ned, Sarah and Stephanie. .
The plot is relatively simple as we have a group of bad guy terrorists intent initially on killing our hero and then kidnapping him to serve their nefarious purposes. However, you can never be quite sure what is going to happen next, you just know it will be exciting! The story is full of suspense and action, rattling along at a fast pace.to a climactic ending.
It is evident there will be a further book to come but before then I will read MY GRL, the first book in the series.

[Greg Spry · Rating 4 out of 5]

His Revenge (John Cannon #2) by John W. Howell was an enjoyable thriller that held my attention from beginning to end.

In the equally-riveting book one, My GRL, lawyer John Cannon gained recognition as a national hero by foiling a terrorist plot. Now in book two, John faces the consequences of his actions. The terrorists try to eliminate him for what he did and then use his status to further their agenda.

Howell writes with a very concise, matter-of-fact style. The prose and dialog are short and to the point, yet the author takes the time to thoroughly explain the reasoning behind what's happening. This approach makes for a very quick, easy, and satisfying read. That said, Howell will occasionally devote too much page space to minutia. For example, I don't need to know the step-by-step details of the main character's shower and bathroom routine. But I'll gladly skim over a few irrelevant side notes in exchange for comprehensive treatment of the important parts of the story.

While I'm not convinced that the events and character motivations would likely play out in real life as they did in the novel, I think things could've happened that way. Most impressive to me was how Howell took the time to have Cannon reason out every event and plan. If the terrorists took some action against him, he thought, "Well, this was probably why." And if Cannon intended to do something to foil the bad guys, he thought, "Here's why my idea may or may not work." In other words, the causes and effects were treated expertly. Even though I may still question the validity of some of the explanations, I appreciate that Howell provided those explanations.

The author clearly put a lot of thought into the plot and story. Howell challenges himself by essentially writing from the perspective of a blind person, given that Cannon has lost his sight in the first few chapters. The author pulls this off convincingly. My only criticism was that the explanations sometimes got a little too over-detailed. At a certain point, I'd think to myself, "Okay, I get the idea," but the explanations would still go on for sentences or paragraphs.

The tension/conflict is slow to build in the beginning, but when it finally ramps up, it hits hard. Cannon's attempt to survive the hitmen in the first part of the story with the help of US military forces is a wild ride. In the second part of the story, Howell foregoes the action and instead builds the tension through the no-win situation of Cannon's captivity.

A handful of minor things bugged me. Cannon is little too brash and confident for someone who's life is in serious jeopardy. His attitude definitely killed some of the tension. If I were the antagonists, I would've beaten him into submission to adjust his attitude. For that matter, the antagonists are awfully accommodating, serving him coffee, bringing him to expensive dinners attended by important people, and putting him up in fancy hotel rooms. Why were the two ladies in the story so drawn to him? The motivations behind one of the two women's attractions toward him were explained but not the other. And Cannon's time with the antagonists started to drag on and become redundant, following a pattern of dinner/event, transportation, hotel room, and repeat. Lastly, the final resolution, while satisfying, came together perhaps a little too conveniently.

At the time of this review posting, I've begun the third book, Our Justice. I'll note that I don’t read subsequent books in a series very often.

[Mae Clair · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Revenge continues the story of John Cannon, begun in My Grl. Now, a national hero for foiling a terrorist plot, John is slated to be awarded a medal by the President. But things never go as planned, and in this tale of high stakes intrigue, John finds himself a captive of terrorist leader, Matt Jacobs.

Packed with action from the start, the novel also uses cat-and-mouse cleverness when Cannon is given the choice of betraying his country or having many innocents suffer death as a result of his refusal. The action scenes are superb, but I found the tension of the mental maneuvers and head games to be the most riveting. The characters are well-developed, with Cannon a likable, everyday hero faced with extraordinary circumstances. As a reader, the author often makes us squirm wondering what we would do in Cannon’s shoes (at least I did) and that is part of the tension.

I’ve already started reading book 3, Our Justice, and look forward to seeing how the author is going to wrap up this engaging series!

[Anna Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the well-written second book in a proposed trilogy of thrillers focused on a terrorist threat. I jumped into this book without reading book 1, My GRL This book makes the logic of "His Revenge" clear though with enough background to set up the story. John Cannon is a great lead character who carries the story! This fast-paced, action-packed thriller never lets up as that story unfolds. The occasional use of humor and interesting secondary characters add variation into the narrative and pacing. An unlikely protagonist caught in a nearly impossible set of circumstances and use of the first-person make this a fairly unique offering in the thriller genre. Thriller fans will be...well, thrilled! Five Stars

[Bette Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

PACKED-WITH-PUNCH THRILLER!
Another great 'thriller' starring John Cannon, hero extraordinaire! After reading MY GRL by John W. Howell, I couldn't wait to get a peek at the sequel and found it in HIS REVENGE. I thoroughly enjoyed the further adventures of John Cannon. When reading author John W. Howell's novels, I feel like I’m walking in Cannon’s shoes. Now that's great writing--HIS REVENGE is skillfully written and packed with a punch! The fast-paced plot and memorable characters kept me engaged from page one through to the end. Howell tidily ties up the plot, while leaving this reader plenty of room to want more in another sequel. ~ Bette A. Stevens

[Rebecca Reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Revenge is a lot of fun! Chases, kidnappings, and fast-paced action keeps you turning the pages. There were times I thought, "This is a little too far-fetched," but it still worked! Howell pulls you into the universe he created. I liked the first in the series, My GRL, and I enjoyed this one even more. I'm looking forward to the next John Cannon novel!

[Ted Halstead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Exciting Thriller From John Howell!

The real test for an author who writes thrillers is simple. Does the reader of one want to read others? Happily, in the case of John Howell the answer is yes.
I say this in particular because I've written a series of thrillers myself, and consider reviews expressing an interest (or not) in reading other books in the series my best indicator of success.
There are some challenges unique to a series. Personally, I think the most important is making the book accessible to readers who haven't read every preceding book, while still tying the narrative together for readers who have read the whole series. Howell succeeds admirably with this task.
The heart of any thriller, though, is dialogue. Here's where Howell really shines. Here's an exchange between the hero and the villain:
"John, you’re so naïve about how we operate that it sometimes hurts. Don’t you think if Sarah had gone to the police, we would have known and then be forced to harm her sister?”
“What kind of harm?”
"The usual: rape, torture, and murder.”
"You’re disgusting.”
"Yeah, well, we try and do a complete job."
Here's another:
"How do I know you’ll keep your word?”
"You don’t. Also, I’m not here to bargain with someone who has no chips to play. You will simply have to have faith I’m a man of my word. I don’t think I’ve ever lied to you. Right?”
Exchanges with other characters are just as memorable. Here's one between the hero and an attractive woman:
"Nice perfume,” I say.
Sarah looks at me as if I’d complimented the lift in her bra.
One small detail I particularly appreciated was the villains resentment of being shown up as less than perfect in his use of English in a business setting by the hero. Often in thrillers where the hero is held captive you can't help wondering- why doesn't the villain just kill him? Here, it makes perfect sense. Death isn't enough. Humiliation has to come first.
I can't say any more without giving away the plot. I'll make it simple- if you enjoy exciting thrillers, I think you'll like this book!

[D. Peach · Rating 4 out of 5]

His Revenge follows on the heels of the previous book, My GRL. I had fun revisiting a great character, John Cannon, an ordinary nice guy forced into the role of a hero. He’s once again kidnapped and trying to outwit the terrorist mastermind plotting to create havoc in the US. I do recommend reading the books in order, even though the author provides adequate backstory to get the gist of what previously happened.

There’s plenty of action and danger, though less than in the first book. The pace starts out a touch slow, but when it picks up, it charges ahead. John isn’t a macho, gun-toting character, and the solutions to his problems rely more on his wits and a clever plan, along with some strongly developed allies that added depth to the story. The characters face some tough choices that will make the reader squirm.

The bad guys are quite diabolical, heartless, and seemed to cover every base. But they also struck me as a touch gullible, especially since they’ve been outwitted by John before. That said, the rationale backing up the plot is detailed and the solution well-crafted. The writing is professional, the dialog and characterization excellent. I’ll be reading more of John Cannon in the future.

[Dee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thriller with twists and turns

John Cannon, hailed as a hero for thwarting a terrorist plot to kill a group of midshipmen, starts the book recovering in a hospital from the wounds suffered while accomplishing that task. He’s not only hurt badly, but the man who was with him (and who John credits with saving his life) died in the effort. John knows who committed the terrorist act and he wants nothing more than to see the man killed. And that’s what he sets out to do.

I liked the story of His Revenge very much. However, as a second book this one needed much more set up. The reader is expected to have read the first book before this one, maybe? Mr. Howell refers to characters and events from the previous book with no explanation in this one, which left me lost at times. And there were other inconsistencies, such as when a blinded John goes to Ray’s house (one character we assume is a close friend, though he’s not really explained), Ray has to explain to John what his house looks like—even the color of the exterior. Things like that had me wondering. But the overall story is good enough to carry one through the rest.

[Lisa Mackay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read 'MY GRL', Mr. Howell's first book in the John Cannon series and wanted to read this one to find out what happened to Mr. Cannon.
This action thriller picks up where 'My GRL' left off. Although not listed as a series, 'MY GRL' is book one of the John Cannon Series and should, in my opinion, be read before 'HIS REVENGE' to give the reader the foundations necessary to enjoy this story all the more.
Enjoy it, I did. Despite moments where things were explained a little too much for my taste, which spoilt the flow a little bit, it was a solid read.
The main character, John Cannon, is a lovable hero with a dry wit and a good heart, if a little naive and unconventional at times.
One of my favourite lines... "You'll have to excuse him; he has no manners." Nicely done, Mr. H.
Off to read the next one. OUR JUSTICE

[D.L. Finn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have eagerly awaited reading more about John Cannon after “My GRL”. Mr. Howell has a unique way of writing that brings the reader into the action quickly. The story continues with John waking up in a hospital after stopping a terrorist attack. I felt the anxiety of not being able to move one’s arms or see-- like the main character when he awakened. As soon as John arrives home, the action begins and never lets up until the last page. While the plan is to go meet the president to be honored as a hero…well, nothing goes the way it should because his enemy has “other” ideas. This book, like the first, kept me up late, into the night because I wanted to see what was going to happen next. I immediately started reading “Our Justice” the third book in this series—after finishing “His Revenge”! If you love a thrilling, suspenseful, and action-packed story you’ll love this book!

[Laurie Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poor John Cannon. Recognized as a hero, he doesn't get the chance to rest because the bad guys want him dead, up until they decide to use him for their nefarious plans.

Author John W. Howell has followed up his action filled first book My GRL with an even more action packed thriller. From shoots outs to kidnapping, the tension is high and ramped higher as the plot develops. This book makes for an enjoyable, fast-paced read. Character John Cannon's reactions and responses are realistic given the circumstances and all new characters (and the return of old favorites) are well developed. I'm very much looking forward to the next one.

[Karen Ingalls · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, John Howell does not disappoint with his book, His Revenge. John Cannon is the new hero of America after thwarting an attack on the Annapolis midshipmen aboard a ship in New York harbor. Now there is revenge for his heroism by the terrorist, Jacobs who elaborately plans to bring down the United States and end the hero's life. John Cannon is up to his usual smart ways and tries to put an end to Jacob's ways. Does he or doesn't he? I will let the reader find out on his or her own while reading this fast-paced thriller.

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It kept me on the edge of my seat. Think Robert Ludlum but with more adrenaline. Highly recommend!

My Rating: 5+ stars

[Sally Cronin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received all three of John W. Howell’s books featuring John Cannon as a gift at Christmas and so was able to follow up on the first book My GRL quite quickly. I think that was a benefit as some of the characters that follow John Cannon into the second book were familiar. There was some recap in the first couple of chapters and that helped get the action packed book off to a good start.

John Cannon is not your typical hero, and for those used to the Steven Segal or Arnold Schwarzenegger approach to villains, it may make you wonder how he is going to survive. He does so by using brain power rather than brawn and manages to manipulate himself in and out of situations cleverly. With a the stability of the US at stake and the lives of thousands, including someone he loves, John Cannon is faced with a seemingly impossible choice.

The action is non-stop and the pace is maintained throughout the story. I am looking forward to the third book Our Justice and to share John Cannon’s next adventure. Overall I would recommend His Justice to those who enjoy a good thriller.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

John Cannon is not your average American hero. Heck, he’s not even your average hero. Cannon is a somewhat naïve business attorney who has an uncanny ability to find, or rather, get himself into inexplicable and (almost) inescapable danger. His Revenge carries forward the story that began with My GRL, the first novel by John W. Howell. If you haven’t read My GRL yet, don’t worry. The first few chapters of My Revenge provide enough backstory to bring you up to speed. You will likely want to read My GRL after this novel, if only to fully understand how the heck Cannon got himself into this mess.

Generally I don’t read thrillers, but there’s enough suspense in this novel that I kept turning the pages. You know from the get-go that Cannon is still in danger, a man wanted by terrorists because he was able to stop them from committing a terrorist attack on the U.S. He’s also an American hero because of this, but before he can meet with the President to accept an award for his heroism, the terrorists strike again and Cannon isn’t the only person in danger.

The plot is simple yet complicated by the number of people the terrorists have rounded up as hostages to put their plan into action and by the lengths they go to keep U.S. law enforcement at bay. Cannon brings his experience as a lawyer to try and negotiate for his safety as well as the safety of thousands of innocent people. This in part is what makes Cannon a different kind of hero. He’s something between James Bond and Inspector Clouseau. He's focussed on form and civility like Bond but without the jaded view of human nature. He makes cringe-worthy mistakes in judgment like Clouseau but without the slapstick. I’ll admit, there were times when I almost lost patience with Cannon as he seemed more interested in the food and drink he was being served or how good his shower was than the fact that the amenities were being provided by terrorists. But even other characters occasionally rolled their eyes at Cannon’s peculiarities and put me at ease in my assessment of him.

I don’t want to give too much away since I assume with thrillers as with any other story of suspense, the element of surprise is what keeps you reading. His Revenge has quite a few surprises, the least of which is the ending. Did I assume that Cannon would get out of this latest adventure with his skin intact? Sure I did because I know there will be a continuation of his story with a third novel. It’s the “how” he survived that is both surprising and pleasing. Remember at the beginning of this review, I said Cannon is not your average hero. In a way that gives me chills, he could be any one of us who happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people but (thankfully) the right kind of friends.

Given the number of 5-star reviews, I feel I should explain why I’m giving His Revenge 4 stars. First, as I note earlier, I don’t tend to read thrillers so some of my criticism may be indicative of this just not being the right genre for me. Second, I would have liked more description of the characters. They remained shadowy figures in my mind with His Revenge than they did with My GRL. Finally, I found myself not always liking Cannon. With women, he often seemed more interested in sex than in them and, well, that just bugged me. But obviously not other readers so if you like thrillers, then go ahead, get yourself a copy, and enjoy the ride!

[Marcha Fox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fast-moving, well-written and nicely edited thriller keeps you turning the pages as you wonder how hero, John Cannon, is going to get out of his current dilemma. In the first book in this trilogy (My GRL), Cannon foiled a sophisticated group of terrorist's insidious plan. Needless to say, they're out for revenge and manage to capture him after which they force him to be part of another devious plot aimed at destroying the economic viability of the west. The suspense is well-sustained, dialog gripping, and characters convincing. The action level was breathtaking. Having not read "My GRL" it was nonetheless relatively easy to follow what had transpired previously. Descriptions of Cannon's recovery from injuries sustained in the first book were very well-done.

However, there were various gaps typical of a serial where the author doesn't remind a previous reader (or enlighten a new one) with regard to details such as what the characters look like. For example, while it was implied in this volume that the terrorists were of the Middle Eastern variety, their names were not indicative of that heritage. Rather, they had names that suggested European or even American origin. There was also no physical description with regard to their appearance, so they were a faceless enigma. This left me scratching my head throughout the story, wondering "Who exactly are these people?"

The motivation for their heinous acts was touched on, but not demonstrated in their personal behavior. While I would expect lethal passion resulting from intense anger, hatred, and a visceral need for revenge, the antagonists behaved more like corporate executives out to annihilate a competitor to keep their stockholders satisfied. They were definitely cold-hearted, but the expected fury at Cannon's previous actions didn't come through.

Maybe this was covered in the first book, but evoking the emotional drive behind their acts could have added considerable intensity and additional suspense. If the bad guys were true terrorists, you'd expect that pissing them off further would result in chopping Cannon's (or a loved one's) head off on YouTube, but that type of potential didn't come through. While the terrorists used the fate of loved ones to drive their captives' cooperation, it seemed that the good guys may have gotten around it a bit too easily, if these terrorists were as smart or well-connected as implied. Especially if the antagonists had as much clout and the ability to infiltrate so many organizations to effect Cannon's capture, which was not explained, either.

Perhaps this was covered in the first book, which would make it required reading to fully appreciate this one. The author has an excellent writing style with a talent for developing a fast moving story with convincing dialog and viable characters. By filling in some of these gaps, kicking up the emotional drive a notch, and a bit more imagery, he could easily approach the level of Tom Clancy or John Grisham.

[Jan Sikes]

Thrillers aren’t normally my favorite read, but His Revenge by John Howell sucked me in by the end of the first chapter!
John Cannon is a somewhat naïve successful business attorney who finds himself in the thick of a terrorist plot to destroy the American economy, embarrass the president and send the world into a tailspin.
At the beginning of the story, John barely escapes death in a horrible explosion that claims the life of his ally, Jason. But, because their efforts saved thousands of lives, John is now considered a national hero. Although saddened by the fact that Jason didn’t make it, he begins a slow recuperation. The blast has left him temporarily blind and paralyzed. The local police chief, Ned Tranes, takes personal responsibility for looking after John until the FBI and Secret Service arrive on the scene. But, as it turns out, there is no time for mending.
A meeting with the president is arranged and John is to receive a medal of honor for his bravery. After a side-trip to New York to pick up Jason’s sister, Stephanie, they proceed with FBI protection to a memorial service for Jason. He is stunned when a bullet intended for him hits her instead.
The action continues but culminates when John is drugged and taken prisoner by the terrorist group known as Desert Wolves. The plan is to use John to make an international broadcast in which he speaks lies about the American government and their involvement in oil control from the Middle East. These lies will send the country into chaos and the economy into a nose dive.
Not only are the terrorists forcing John to make the broadcast, but are also threatening to kill Stephanie and approximately 2,000 other people at Bethesda Naval hospital where she is recovering from the gunshot wound.
As events unfold and suspense builds, there doesn’t seem to be any viable means for John to escape from this deadly situation without thousands of people losing their lives.
If you like a thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat with a splash of romance thrown in, you’ll enjoy His Revenge.

[Teri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first book in this series, My GRL, and already knew I liked John Cannon and wondered where his next adventure would take him. In His Revenge, we learn the terrorists aren't finished with him yet.

This book begins just hours after My GRL ends and if you haven't read it, enough details are scattered throughout the first few chapters so you get the gist of what happened. John is more of an unlikely hero kind of guy and sometimes finds himself in situations making judgement calls that the reader just knows are bad ideas. Several times I wanted to yell and tell him to do the opposite of what his instincts were telling him; however, his occasional naivete' is offset by his genuine concern for others and desire to do the right thing. In this book, it seems no matter where he turns, people are gunning for him, making it hard for John to know who to trust.

The plot moves along at a brisk pace, providing suspense, some twists, and makes you question which team some of the characters are playing for up to the very last page. In some sections, substantial details regarding food, showers, etc. were provided, which pulled me out of the story and I tended to skip those sections as they weren't important to the overall plot.

If you're a thriller/suspense fan, make sure to check out this engaging series - I'll be looking forward to the conclusion of John Cannon's story in the last book of this trilogy.

I received a digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review through Rosie's Book Review Team.

[Bob Stimson]

An entertaining thriller
John Howell’s second outing with main character John Cannon will appeal to readers who like a lighthearted mix of brisk action, wild situations, gourmet food, soft-core sex, and a resourceful but somewhat naive hero—picture a combination of James Bond and James Coburn’s Derek Flint—will be captivated by His Revenge. The first person, present tense viewpoint employed by the author—no easy feat—places the reader intimately in John’s shoes.
In Howell’s preceding book, John is a lawyer on sabbatical who runs afoul of a billionaire who was stung by one of John’s legal cases and who attempts to murder some midshipmen. John, who relies on lawyerly guile more than physical prowess and who comes across as an everyman out of his element, manages to thwart the terrorists, but his friend is killed.
In this sequel, John is up against the same villain and his henchmen. Temporarily blinded and half paralyzed from previous action, John struggles to regain full capacity while trying to avoid being assassinated by snipers. In subsequent action—think Jimmy McGill of “Better Call Saul”—he struggles to thwart a diabolical scheme to hamstring the government, while also contending with betrayals.

[Kevin Brennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

His Revenge, the sequel to Howell’s 2013 My GRL, takes up where its predecessor left off, with John Cannon recovering from injuries sustained when he, almost single-handedly, saved the world. It’s not very far into this tale that the excrement starts to hit the fan, and the reader knows a wild ride is ahead.

Oh, and it is a wild ride. Cannon, always the inadvertent hero, is shot at, kidnapped, manipulated, seduced, and, ultimately, put in a position to save the world again. Or to fail at it this time …

The best way to think of this book, and My GRL too, is as a cousin of, say, the James Bond series. There’s tongue-in-cheek comedy here, absurd situations, miraculous near-misses, and -- this must be Howell’s trademark -- lots of excellent food (not to mention superb terrorist coffee). Cannon is something of a Mr. Magoo, wandering in and out of trouble, but he’s so innocently endearing that you can’t help but root for him.

There’s plenty of action in this story, plenty of surprises, and it’s clear that Howell has laid the groundwork for a thrilling conclusion to the trilogy in his next book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book begins with John J. Cannon, still being in hospital after the explosion. Ned's task is to protect him, not an easy task considering the invitation to the White House might attract unwanted company.

With His Revenge, John W. Howell has created a steady-paced thriller with a quite normal protagonist who still does not see himself as a hero. John J. Cannon and Ned are very likeable characters; as their friendship grows, so does the reader's friendship with them. The story comprises a variety of craftily elaborated characters with sufficient depth and interesting interactions until the final page. I had a great time reading His Revenge - it is a very intriguing and intense read; it turned me into an invisible ally and/or friend of the believable protagonist. I was drawn into the story right away, cheering John on. In these days, some of the situations make you think; similar stuff might happen.

I am looking forward to reading more of this series.

This is for you if you like steady-paced thrillers, interesting characters, series, and thoroughly researched matters.

A compelling read in a series to watch out for.

Highly recommended!

[Janice Spina · Rating 5 out of 5]

An action-packed thriller!

His Revenge is a suspenseful, thrill ride that keeps the action coming. John Cannon, an attorney, is not your average American hero. He keeps finding himself in the midst of danger, espionage, with his life in jeopardy at every turn. He does what he can to save his fellow man and the country he loves.

The author has created a strong character who, though not without flaws, is likeable, canny and resilient; someone whom I would like to have on my side. This is a blockbuster of a series; one which I could see as a future movie.

Great job, John Howell! I look forward to the next book in the series.

[Larry Landgraf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by John Howell and it took a few chapters to get used to his style of writing. I got into the story quickly, then had a hard time putting it down. The story is well crafted and suspenseful. I would not hesitate to purchase another of John’s books.

The story is quite believable, the characters seemed real and the story moved along at a good pace. Good guys, bad guys and a couple sexy gals in between. What’s not to like? I highly recommend His Revenge. Go to Amazon and pick up your copy today.

[Thomas Whaley · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Revenge, but author John W. Howell, was action-packed, riveting and exactly what the book-doctor orders for readers who want to set aside one day to read an extraordinary book. Howell provides the ever-necessary injured and somewhat womanizing military hero, terrorists, kidnapping, and all the nail-biting Die Hardish scenes that you'd expect to make it all come together. Definitely check out his first book, My Grl, BEFORE you read this one.

[Bob · Rating 2 out of 5]

John J. Cannon was an un intestinal hero, but the President wants to award him a medal. While on the way to the ceremony in Washington and picking up the sister of his friend who was killed in the action, they are attacked and the sister is wounded. John ends up being captured and a pawn in a plot to discredit the current administration. An ok book, fine to pass the time with.

[Andra Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-crafted sequel. I loved how the characters developed from the first installment My Grl. I never knew quite where the story was headed, something I always enjoy about a thriller. A definite value for any suspense reader.

[Bee · Rating 3 out of 5]

well written but much too much action for my taste