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Mark Cole #1
Stop at Nothing
Mark Cole is a deniable operative for the US government, a patriot who is always willing to give his life for his country. Living in the Caymans with his wife and two children, he is no longer fully active, but due to his unique abilities he is called upon to perform a difficult assassination.
The target is the Director of the CIA’s National Clandestine Service; but after the mission, Cole becomes a target himself. And as the forces against him mount up relentlessly, he realizes that greed and hunger for power at the highest levels means that he can trust nobody. Cole discovers that not only are thousands of lives at risk, but his own wife and children are threatened.
Pushed into deciding whether to protect global security or to save his family, Cole vows that he will stop at nothing to do both – whatever the cost.
The target is the Director of the CIA’s National Clandestine Service; but after the mission, Cole becomes a target himself. And as the forces against him mount up relentlessly, he realizes that greed and hunger for power at the highest levels means that he can trust nobody. Cole discovers that not only are thousands of lives at risk, but his own wife and children are threatened.
Pushed into deciding whether to protect global security or to save his family, Cole vows that he will stop at nothing to do both – whatever the cost.
495 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
About the author
J.T. Brannan
85 books90 followersJT Brannan is the Bradford-born author of ORIGIN, EXTINCTION, STOP AT NOTHING and DESTRUCTIVE THOUGHTS (Short Story).
Trained as a British Army officer at Sandhurst, before deciding to pursue a writing career, he is a former national Karate champion and doorman.
He now writes full-time, and teaches martial arts in Harrogate, where he lives with his wife and two young children.
He is currently working on his next novel.
Trained as a British Army officer at Sandhurst, before deciding to pursue a writing career, he is a former national Karate champion and doorman.
He now writes full-time, and teaches martial arts in Harrogate, where he lives with his wife and two young children.
He is currently working on his next novel.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
February 7, 2017
My first book by this author and his character Mark Cole.
After finishing this book, have just bought the next five books in the series.
Mark Cole is a deniable operative for the US government, a patriot who is always willing to give his life for his country. Living in the Caymans with his wife and two children, he is no longer fully active, but due to his unique abilities he is called upon to perform a difficult assassination.
The target is the Director of the CIA’s National Clandestine Service; but after the mission, Cole becomes a target himself. And as the forces against him mount up relentlessly, he realizes that greed and hunger for power at the highest levels means that he can trust nobody. Cole discovers that not only are thousands of lives at risk, but his own wife and children are threatened.
Pushed into deciding whether to protect global security or to save his family, Cole vows that he will stop at nothing to do both – whatever the cost.
I loved the book, although some reviews give this a one star?
The is escapism with a touch of reality, yes although maybe a little far fetched.
Let's remember we are reading the book because we like this type of book, and to me it had great characters, a fast paced, action packed and thrilling story, brutal at times, yes, but never lacks the pace we love with this action books.
Many great characters, with the story plots all interesting and keeps you guessing all the way.
So I could not put the book down, so for me it has to get five stars.
After finishing this book, have just bought the next five books in the series.
Mark Cole is a deniable operative for the US government, a patriot who is always willing to give his life for his country. Living in the Caymans with his wife and two children, he is no longer fully active, but due to his unique abilities he is called upon to perform a difficult assassination.
The target is the Director of the CIA’s National Clandestine Service; but after the mission, Cole becomes a target himself. And as the forces against him mount up relentlessly, he realizes that greed and hunger for power at the highest levels means that he can trust nobody. Cole discovers that not only are thousands of lives at risk, but his own wife and children are threatened.
Pushed into deciding whether to protect global security or to save his family, Cole vows that he will stop at nothing to do both – whatever the cost.
I loved the book, although some reviews give this a one star?
The is escapism with a touch of reality, yes although maybe a little far fetched.
Let's remember we are reading the book because we like this type of book, and to me it had great characters, a fast paced, action packed and thrilling story, brutal at times, yes, but never lacks the pace we love with this action books.
Many great characters, with the story plots all interesting and keeps you guessing all the way.
So I could not put the book down, so for me it has to get five stars.
April 23, 2017
Wow! I just found a new to me great action thriller author!!
This is the first I've read in this series but will definitely be looking forward to them all. Great characters and plot, I was pulled in right away and could not put it down! Then main character,Mark Cole, is an assassin used for the government in highly classified situations. I like how the author wraps up the plot but goes in a little different direction with some characters.
This is the first I've read in this series but will definitely be looking forward to them all. Great characters and plot, I was pulled in right away and could not put it down! Then main character,Mark Cole, is an assassin used for the government in highly classified situations. I like how the author wraps up the plot but goes in a little different direction with some characters.
February 23, 2014
On the edge!
On the edge!
could not put it down!
the author captures a character of James Bond and Mitch Rapp all in one phenomenal being
On the edge!
could not put it down!
the author captures a character of James Bond and Mitch Rapp all in one phenomenal being
September 25, 2018
Stop at Nothing (A Mark Cole Thriller #1) by J.T. Brannan is without a doubt a 5 star read all the way. Actually this was the second time that I read this story, and, if it's even possible, I enjoyed the read even more than I did the first time. The characters are ones that you easily learn to love or hate, they're so very lifelike. The plotting is tight and the action is nonstop from beginning to end. This book is not a page turner but a page burner. The ending, well I really didn't expect it the first time and even though I knew how it was going to end this time, it still took me by surprise. I will not say anymore about this book and spoil it for you. You must read this one even if you don't read another book this year.
August 15, 2020
This book is simply an insult to the average reader. It is as if it has been written by a computer that has been fed by lots of Comics about super hero's . It is the common conspiracy of people within the administration trying to control the world, and a super spy and fighter, that everyone who tries to stop him, is getting killed in the most gruesome way. He was even able to train is wife to become a super woman.
the all book is about our hero trying to escape, while the bad guys are getting killed left and right. Our hero is not only a super killing machine, he is also a super computer hacker .
A piece of junk targeting a very law intelligent audience.
Since there is no "zero star" I am force to rate it with 1 star.
the all book is about our hero trying to escape, while the bad guys are getting killed left and right. Our hero is not only a super killing machine, he is also a super computer hacker .
A piece of junk targeting a very law intelligent audience.
Since there is no "zero star" I am force to rate it with 1 star.
October 14, 2021
“Stop At Nothing”. No. You Simply Can’t!
That pretty much says it all, for once started I couldn’t stop turning pages.
As I’ve read the entire “Thousand Dollar Man” series by J. T. Brannan and enjoyed it, I decided to read more by the author. I’m glad I did, as now I have several more in the series to read.
I highly recommend this book.
That pretty much says it all, for once started I couldn’t stop turning pages.
As I’ve read the entire “Thousand Dollar Man” series by J. T. Brannan and enjoyed it, I decided to read more by the author. I’m glad I did, as now I have several more in the series to read.
I highly recommend this book.
November 4, 2017
Let down
Like it all the way to the last chapters then, it took a turn I did not agree with. All thru the book he over came all odds then when his talents were really needed you made it so he couldn't act are think of what to do. A big disappointment
Like it all the way to the last chapters then, it took a turn I did not agree with. All thru the book he over came all odds then when his talents were really needed you made it so he couldn't act are think of what to do. A big disappointment
March 1, 2020
Mark Cole series, great read!
I've read this story before but from the British aspect. This one from the American side of the story. This was my favorite. With all the good and the bad of the stories they are all great reads. Thanks JT!
I've read this story before but from the British aspect. This one from the American side of the story. This was my favorite. With all the good and the bad of the stories they are all great reads. Thanks JT!
May 7, 2017
Fast moving action thriller. That stated, the plot has been used by many other authors. Gets to be pretty predictable.
June 20, 2017
Good book
Storyline continues to grow and develop. Characters are realistic and get better and better. Read all of the books in order to really enjoy.
Storyline continues to grow and develop. Characters are realistic and get better and better. Read all of the books in order to really enjoy.
November 26, 2017
Too much explicit violence for me. I did like the story line.
January 18, 2018
Fast paced action thriller
If you like Brad Thor or Lee Child read this! As good or better than either. Looking forward to reading another
If you like Brad Thor or Lee Child read this! As good or better than either. Looking forward to reading another
February 21, 2018
Liked the concept
April 14, 2018
The deadliest betrail.
I chose this rating because I couldn't put this book down. Great storyline and at some level several stories in one. Very much worth reading.
I chose this rating because I couldn't put this book down. Great storyline and at some level several stories in one. Very much worth reading.
May 27, 2018
A too good thriller.
Very intense & gripping. Could not put it down, once I started reading the book. Must read author. Don't miss out on the sequel.
Very intense & gripping. Could not put it down, once I started reading the book. Must read author. Don't miss out on the sequel.
July 31, 2018
This is the first book that I have read by this author. What a great read. Of course it's far fetched but then it's fiction. I look forward to reading the next one.
August 12, 2018
This was a very good book, look forward to read another in the series.
February 11, 2019
A hero who just won't quit
A real non-stop thriller that takes your breath away with all the nonstop action,breaks your heart in the middle and then gives you a satisfactory ending
A real non-stop thriller that takes your breath away with all the nonstop action,breaks your heart in the middle and then gives you a satisfactory ending
March 4, 2019
My first J. T. book and it will definitely not be my last, thoroughly enjoyed this work and it would make a damn fine action movie!! If you are a fan of action its definitely worth reading.
July 18, 2022
Not a win
Mark Cole was as resourceful as ever in the many situations in which he was stuck. It was truly amazing how he managed to survive all the traps that were set for him.
Mark Cole was as resourceful as ever in the many situations in which he was stuck. It was truly amazing how he managed to survive all the traps that were set for him.
February 11, 2025
Put Aside Reality And Enjoy
The action is nonstop. Some of it is unbelievable, but it does keep you reading. I'll keep on reading the series.
The action is nonstop. Some of it is unbelievable, but it does keep you reading. I'll keep on reading the series.
March 10, 2017
Deadliest assassin
This book was fascinating, requiring continued interest & page turning until the end. Truly amazing! One of the best books I have read in a while!
This book was fascinating, requiring continued interest & page turning until the end. Truly amazing! One of the best books I have read in a while!
December 27, 2012
When I heard that JT Brannan had another book out so soon after Origin I knew I needed to read it, my TBR pile is somewhat short of thrillers right now.
Where Origin is OTT action adventure thrills, and encompasses every conspiracy and myth going. Stop at Nothing is more of a world stage political conspiracy.
Mark Cole is Bonds US cousin mixed with the balls out action and killing edge of Jason Bourne. The books plot highlights the state of the world, terrorism, international anti terror agencies working in tandem and just how they could be abused. The whole idea, scary and the plot frenetic as hell. Characters a little OTT but thats the bond / Bourne thing. His wife a great counter point to the story. I particularly loved the many escapes from safe houses and malls etc.
I enjoyed this book immensely and needed a great fast paced thriller like this... bring on the next one.
Recommended
(Parm)
Product Description
Mark Cole is a deniable operative for the US government, a patriot who is always willing to give his life for his country. Living in the Caymans with his wife and two children, he is no longer fully active, but due to his unique abilities he is called upon to perform a difficult assassination. The target is the Director of the CIA's National Clandestine Service; but after the mission, Cole becomes a target himself. And as the forces against him mount up relentlessly, he realises that greed and hunger for power at the highest levels means that he can trust nobody. Cole discovers that not only are thousands of lives at risk, but his own wife and children are threatened. Pushed into deciding whether to protect global security or to save his family, Cole vows that he will stop at nothing to do both - whatever the cost.
Where Origin is OTT action adventure thrills, and encompasses every conspiracy and myth going. Stop at Nothing is more of a world stage political conspiracy.
Mark Cole is Bonds US cousin mixed with the balls out action and killing edge of Jason Bourne. The books plot highlights the state of the world, terrorism, international anti terror agencies working in tandem and just how they could be abused. The whole idea, scary and the plot frenetic as hell. Characters a little OTT but thats the bond / Bourne thing. His wife a great counter point to the story. I particularly loved the many escapes from safe houses and malls etc.
I enjoyed this book immensely and needed a great fast paced thriller like this... bring on the next one.
Recommended
(Parm)
Product Description
Mark Cole is a deniable operative for the US government, a patriot who is always willing to give his life for his country. Living in the Caymans with his wife and two children, he is no longer fully active, but due to his unique abilities he is called upon to perform a difficult assassination. The target is the Director of the CIA's National Clandestine Service; but after the mission, Cole becomes a target himself. And as the forces against him mount up relentlessly, he realises that greed and hunger for power at the highest levels means that he can trust nobody. Cole discovers that not only are thousands of lives at risk, but his own wife and children are threatened. Pushed into deciding whether to protect global security or to save his family, Cole vows that he will stop at nothing to do both - whatever the cost.
January 8, 2016
Mark Cole is a black book assassin. A man used when deniability is a must.
As a member of a group so secretive that only the very top government people even know of its existence. Each member is handpicked for their unique skill set.
An international incident captured on live broadcast has Cole activated to dispatch the Director of the CIA. While an unusual target, Cole is not one to question his orders, especially when coming from his handler, one of the only men he trusts.
Cole is soon the subject of worldwide hunt, set up by a secret group of power brokers, he and his family have been marked for death. A mistake that sets Cole on a worldwide killing spree to save his family and stop those that betrayed him.
Packed with action, Mark Cole is a bad, bad man. The body count is high and the action fast and furious.
The author doesn't try to use plot tricks to keep you guessing, the plot is straight foreword but he does a great job of leading us through Cole's journey to a conclusion that will leave you with your jaw hanging and a burning thirst for revenge.
Mark Cole has huge potential and while the author uses martial art as one of his main skill sets with some technics that stretch even my acceptance of believably there is no denying that Cole could be one the next great action character for those of us that love action/thrillers.
There are some grammatical errors that the author should fix but isn't too distracting but does show the lack of quality editing. Still a solid read.
As a member of a group so secretive that only the very top government people even know of its existence. Each member is handpicked for their unique skill set.
An international incident captured on live broadcast has Cole activated to dispatch the Director of the CIA. While an unusual target, Cole is not one to question his orders, especially when coming from his handler, one of the only men he trusts.
Cole is soon the subject of worldwide hunt, set up by a secret group of power brokers, he and his family have been marked for death. A mistake that sets Cole on a worldwide killing spree to save his family and stop those that betrayed him.
Packed with action, Mark Cole is a bad, bad man. The body count is high and the action fast and furious.
The author doesn't try to use plot tricks to keep you guessing, the plot is straight foreword but he does a great job of leading us through Cole's journey to a conclusion that will leave you with your jaw hanging and a burning thirst for revenge.
Mark Cole has huge potential and while the author uses martial art as one of his main skill sets with some technics that stretch even my acceptance of believably there is no denying that Cole could be one the next great action character for those of us that love action/thrillers.
There are some grammatical errors that the author should fix but isn't too distracting but does show the lack of quality editing. Still a solid read.
February 11, 2017
A very engrssing novel with a flair for incredible exploits by Cole.
This is the first I've read of the series, ad I will read more, but it is a tad over the top as far as human exploits go, giving a sense that superman exists. Hopefully the next ones are a bit more realistic.
This is the first I've read of the series, ad I will read more, but it is a tad over the top as far as human exploits go, giving a sense that superman exists. Hopefully the next ones are a bit more realistic.
July 29, 2014
The pace of this book was awesome. It was a little different style with some very short chapters. Being written by a British Army officer it did contain of course UK English spelling but didn't detract from the story.
Treason and covert ops keep this story moving along.
All the characters were well defined and their interaction to others and their situations were well written.
I will provide no spoilers. The book is too exciting to take away even one page of enjoyment of a potential reader.
All who love Vince Flynn novels should definitely put this on their reading list.
Treason and covert ops keep this story moving along.
All the characters were well defined and their interaction to others and their situations were well written.
I will provide no spoilers. The book is too exciting to take away even one page of enjoyment of a potential reader.
All who love Vince Flynn novels should definitely put this on their reading list.
February 11, 2016
This a fast moving thriller in the style of Vince Flynn and Brad Thor. That is where the similarities end because the main character is really "over the top". Is there anything he cannot do? Don't get me started on the body count, incredible but at least he remember to reload his weapons.
It was entertaining and I quite enjoyed but the jury is out as to whether I will read any more of the series. In fact, are there any "villains" left to kill.
In conclusion, good plot, reasonable writing and researching but spoilt by sensationalism.
It was entertaining and I quite enjoyed but the jury is out as to whether I will read any more of the series. In fact, are there any "villains" left to kill.
In conclusion, good plot, reasonable writing and researching but spoilt by sensationalism.
December 19, 2016
could be great series
this could be a great book , but it really needs proofreading. the wrong word used in a sentence is well just wrong, and makes the story rough reading when you have to stop to figure out what it is supposed to say. not just once like a typo ,but all through this book and all the series. examples... sat used for sitting, stood used for standing. and span is not a substitute for spun. come on if you want to be a writer use the correct word.
this could be a great book , but it really needs proofreading. the wrong word used in a sentence is well just wrong, and makes the story rough reading when you have to stop to figure out what it is supposed to say. not just once like a typo ,but all through this book and all the series. examples... sat used for sitting, stood used for standing. and span is not a substitute for spun. come on if you want to be a writer use the correct word.
April 15, 2016
Stop at nothing
More than a little unbelievable but written in such a way that you have to see where it goes. The way the story unfolds I didn't expect the ending as it transpired. It almost rushed to a conclusion simply because the author ran out of ideas, but obviously he did not as the series continues and I will read more.
More than a little unbelievable but written in such a way that you have to see where it goes. The way the story unfolds I didn't expect the ending as it transpired. It almost rushed to a conclusion simply because the author ran out of ideas, but obviously he did not as the series continues and I will read more.
April 29, 2016
Fun to read, but....
This guy is the epitome of all the action heroes we've ever read about or seen on film. He is a super hero. Unfortunately, his feats are so unbelievable that you start shaking your head In disbelief, leading the reader to lose emotional attachment. Still, a fun read, and I'll read more from the series as a comic book like escape.
This guy is the epitome of all the action heroes we've ever read about or seen on film. He is a super hero. Unfortunately, his feats are so unbelievable that you start shaking your head In disbelief, leading the reader to lose emotional attachment. Still, a fun read, and I'll read more from the series as a comic book like escape.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews