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Sam Archer #8
Last Breath
When is violence necessary?
A Federal manhunt is underway across the United States. A sniper has killed three people in three different cities during the last seventy two hours and he’s gone to ground somewhere in Washington D.C. No-one can find him, and riots have erupted on the streets in response to the shootings.
The lead suspect is a police officer.
As the search for the cop intensifies, the violence engulfing the U.S capital means nowhere and no-one is safe, especially the police, who are being targeted by rioters and gangs are making the most of the opportunity and taking over the streets. With the killer on the loose, individuals are taking the law into their own hands. A fourteen year old boy moves through the riot zone, determined to find the killer. A reporter tries to make her way into the city despite the rioting, wanting to get to the suspect before anyone else.
And NYPD Detective Sam Archer arrives in the city visiting family.
Or so it would appear.
In the eighth instalment of the Sam Archer thriller series, the young NYPD cop finds himself drawn into a situation far beyond his control, in a city being torn apart by rioting and violence. Forced to fight or die and to protect others in danger on the streets, his focus is reduced to the absolute, most basic human instinct: survive.
And as long as Archer has breath in his lungs, he can still fight back.
A Federal manhunt is underway across the United States. A sniper has killed three people in three different cities during the last seventy two hours and he’s gone to ground somewhere in Washington D.C. No-one can find him, and riots have erupted on the streets in response to the shootings.
The lead suspect is a police officer.
As the search for the cop intensifies, the violence engulfing the U.S capital means nowhere and no-one is safe, especially the police, who are being targeted by rioters and gangs are making the most of the opportunity and taking over the streets. With the killer on the loose, individuals are taking the law into their own hands. A fourteen year old boy moves through the riot zone, determined to find the killer. A reporter tries to make her way into the city despite the rioting, wanting to get to the suspect before anyone else.
And NYPD Detective Sam Archer arrives in the city visiting family.
Or so it would appear.
In the eighth instalment of the Sam Archer thriller series, the young NYPD cop finds himself drawn into a situation far beyond his control, in a city being torn apart by rioting and violence. Forced to fight or die and to protect others in danger on the streets, his focus is reduced to the absolute, most basic human instinct: survive.
And as long as Archer has breath in his lungs, he can still fight back.
545 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2015
1469 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
Tom Barber
41 books151 followersBorn in Sydney, Australia and raised in England and Brunei, Tom Barber has always had a passion for writing and story-telling. It took him to Nottingham University, England, where he graduated in 2009 with a 2:1 BA Hons in English Studies. Post-graduation, Tom moved to New York City and completed the 2 Year Meisner Acting training programme at The William Esper Studio, furthering his love of acting and screen-writing.
Upon his return to the UK in late 2011, Tom set to work on his debut novel, Nine Lives, which has since become a five-star rated Amazon UK Kindle hit. The following books in the series have been equally successful, garnering five-star reviews in the US, UK, France, Australia and Canada. The Sam Archer series has had over a million books downloaded worldwide and each title is currently being adapted into audiobook format.
Tom spends most of his time back and forth between the US and the UK. He can be contacted at http://www.tom-barber.co.uk/
For info on all upcoming releases: http://tom-barber.us6.list-manage1.co...
Upon his return to the UK in late 2011, Tom set to work on his debut novel, Nine Lives, which has since become a five-star rated Amazon UK Kindle hit. The following books in the series have been equally successful, garnering five-star reviews in the US, UK, France, Australia and Canada. The Sam Archer series has had over a million books downloaded worldwide and each title is currently being adapted into audiobook format.
Tom spends most of his time back and forth between the US and the UK. He can be contacted at http://www.tom-barber.co.uk/
For info on all upcoming releases: http://tom-barber.us6.list-manage1.co...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
October 26, 2018
I absolutely love this series by author Tom Barber! Action, suspense, amazing plots and wonderful characters in every moment of this exciting read! Sam Archer is a hero, of sorts, but he remains human above all and reacts to situations the same way many of us would. This is the very best thriller series you could possibly read, I have not been let down yet!!
Another 5 STAR read in an unbelievably good series!!
Another 5 STAR read in an unbelievably good series!!
December 21, 2015
Sam Archer is back, and in a big way with, "Last Breath", the eighth action thriller from author Tom Barber's iconic series of Archers. Wherever Sam Archer goes in this world heart stopping action and adventure is sure to follow. Archer, 29 is still with the NYPD's elite Counter Terrorism Bureau living in a world of danger and terrorism on a daily basis. It's near mid June, and Archer is headed south to D.C. to visit his sister Sarah. Sarah is married to Jack with two young kids Ally 9, and Maia, 7. It's been many many years since Archer and his sister have gotten together. Sarah traveled across the Atlantic to become a lawyer while Archer was starting out with London's elite "ARU (Armed Response Unit). On the train ride south Archer has an altercation with a Washington Redskin's player. We all know who got the worst of that dust up ! It was also the easiest of situations Archer would be in the entire time visiting Sarah. Meanwhile, three shocking murders have taken place along the east coast. All three victims are killed with a long range super scope rifle. One victim in Maine, one in Boston, and one in NYC. It appears as if there is one killer since all the bullets came from the same gun. Soon the authorities have a suspect- Harry Ledger. The FBI is sure that NYPD officer Harry Ledger is the assassin in this 72 hour sniper spree. Ledger is a close friend of Archer, and they trained together years back. Also dominating the news was hero high school guard who had shot and killed a student who brandished a handgun. However the guard was wounded in the event and hospitalized. Before long the "wanted" sniper kills the hero guard. When 14 year old Nathan Blake is shot and killed while riding his bike Archer knows he's involved with this plot somehow. Nathan was son of one of Archer's partners, Josh Blake.As the manhunt proceeds Archer digs out Ledger from hiding and teams up to figure this mess out. They Also partner up with sister of the Boston victim, and best friend of teenager school shooter. Having to clear Harry's name, and protecting Sarah's family becomes a herculean task for Archer to do without support of his unit or the FBI. Before long the NSA is also involved along with ATF. It's Archer against the world. Archer is at his very best when the task at hand is momentous to say the least. With a plot that comes flying with non stop action at high octane speeds at the reader, Archer delivers. Author Tom Barber is a master of weaving Sam Archer through a gauntlet of evil and terror numerous times throughout the book. Sam Archer books never fail to provide trilling action at fast paces start to finish. Author Barber has a unique set of quirky characters to mesh this story into a wild ride that's very enjoyable to read. All eight of the Sam Archer books have been excellent thrillers with a protagonist to root like hell for. Five stars out of a possible five stars for, "Last Breath", from author Tom Barber. This is a series not to be missed for any reason. Sam Archer proves he can battle to his last breath time and time again.
October 5, 2018
Action packed
The Sam Archer books just keep getting better. Sam’s friendship with his former college roommates gets him involved in a circus of riots. While trying to help prove his friend’s innocence, they just keep getting shot at by the one who framed his friend. The killing keeps on going. It Takes a series of events that allows Sam to put the pieces of the puzzle together. As the mystery continues his sister and her family are put at risk. This is a must read to see how Sam manages to stay alive.
The Sam Archer books just keep getting better. Sam’s friendship with his former college roommates gets him involved in a circus of riots. While trying to help prove his friend’s innocence, they just keep getting shot at by the one who framed his friend. The killing keeps on going. It Takes a series of events that allows Sam to put the pieces of the puzzle together. As the mystery continues his sister and her family are put at risk. This is a must read to see how Sam manages to stay alive.
October 6, 2018
Typical Sam Archer thriller from Tom Barber. Lots of action and lots of credulity needed to get through all of the scenarios. That stated, it's fun entertainment for those who read action thrillers.
Think about a sniper using an 80 pound 20mm sniper rifle and then making his getaway. Hmmm.
Think about a sniper using an 80 pound 20mm sniper rifle and then making his getaway. Hmmm.
October 7, 2018
When Sam Archer arrives in Washington D.C. to visit his sister and her family no one knows he has an ulterior motive. Yes, he wants to be there for his niece's birthday but he also needs to be there to find Harry Ledger, his friend, who is on the run because he has been accused of several horrendous murders. Even Sam knows he can't have done them. When Sam does find Harry he senses something is not right. Together they begin the search for the real culprits and WOW! does it go deep into the heart of the government. Meanwhile gangs are searching for them and the city is being trashed by protesters and looters.
Little does anyone know that the ensuing chaos is choreographed by a group that wants to make money on their name and product. Even Sam & Harry are part of the plan and they fall for it hook, line and sinker.
From the very beginning there is non-stop excitement and craziness for any reader. Tom Barber is an expert at edge of your seat storylines that make it hard to put the book down.
Little does anyone know that the ensuing chaos is choreographed by a group that wants to make money on their name and product. Even Sam & Harry are part of the plan and they fall for it hook, line and sinker.
From the very beginning there is non-stop excitement and craziness for any reader. Tom Barber is an expert at edge of your seat storylines that make it hard to put the book down.
October 9, 2018
Killer of will power
I will just read to the end of the chapter (I do have will power) well maybe just to the end of the next chapter then. I surrender it is a page turner/turner/turner.
Oh well only wimps need to eat and sleep.(please help me to put the book down).
Highly recommend but extremely difficult to put down
I will just read to the end of the chapter (I do have will power) well maybe just to the end of the next chapter then. I surrender it is a page turner/turner/turner.
Oh well only wimps need to eat and sleep.(please help me to put the book down).
Highly recommend but extremely difficult to put down
November 1, 2018
Last Breath is the 8th book in the Sam Archer series but can be read as a standalone novel. It is a fast-paced thriller that combines deceitful security agencies, riots, friendships and the desire for profit that overrides morality.
Sam Archer is an NYPD cop and has taken some time off to see his niece for her birthday. Why else would he be in a cop station having been brought in after a skirmish with a football player on a train far away from home? That is the least of the problems in the city though, three people have been killed; by a cop. And the neighbourhood gangs are having a field day by joining the protests and causing mayhem. Then Sam learns the identity of the cop. It’s someone he knows, someone he is close to. Something seems off. As Sam makes a promise not to get involved in any more action and to just enjoy the time with his family, he knows he is lying. He needs to find out exactly what is going on. As he gets deeper and deeper into the network of lies and finds layers of conspiracies, he also finds out something he never wanted to know. That purple is the last colour you see before you die...
This is definitely a fast ride with a lot going on. Yes, maybe the weaponry is not actually able to do what is claimed in the book, or some characters survive more shootings and stabbings than most, but hey – it’s fiction and it’s there as a break from reality. The plot may have stretched belief a little, but I enjoyed the way it was linked together and even when you are convinced you know who is involved a twist comes along. The writing style was easy to read, and I found myself saying just one more chapter, one more chapter. I liked that some backstory was explained without going into too much detail so that more about Sam’s character was revealed but that you weren’t left in the dark if you hadn’t read the previous books.
An action-packed thriller that gets you caught up in the mayhem and exhausted when it’s all over. Definitely recommended.
Sam Archer is an NYPD cop and has taken some time off to see his niece for her birthday. Why else would he be in a cop station having been brought in after a skirmish with a football player on a train far away from home? That is the least of the problems in the city though, three people have been killed; by a cop. And the neighbourhood gangs are having a field day by joining the protests and causing mayhem. Then Sam learns the identity of the cop. It’s someone he knows, someone he is close to. Something seems off. As Sam makes a promise not to get involved in any more action and to just enjoy the time with his family, he knows he is lying. He needs to find out exactly what is going on. As he gets deeper and deeper into the network of lies and finds layers of conspiracies, he also finds out something he never wanted to know. That purple is the last colour you see before you die...
This is definitely a fast ride with a lot going on. Yes, maybe the weaponry is not actually able to do what is claimed in the book, or some characters survive more shootings and stabbings than most, but hey – it’s fiction and it’s there as a break from reality. The plot may have stretched belief a little, but I enjoyed the way it was linked together and even when you are convinced you know who is involved a twist comes along. The writing style was easy to read, and I found myself saying just one more chapter, one more chapter. I liked that some backstory was explained without going into too much detail so that more about Sam’s character was revealed but that you weren’t left in the dark if you hadn’t read the previous books.
An action-packed thriller that gets you caught up in the mayhem and exhausted when it’s all over. Definitely recommended.
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March 7, 2020Hunted in DC!
Sam's partner's son is killed by the same Sniper who is responsible for two other deaths. When CTU is sidelined by the FBI and the prime suspect is an old friend of his Sam finds himself heading for DC and a whole lot of trouble. It soon becomes clear that nothing is as it seems and if he doesn't figure things out quickly it's not just his life that could be lost. With his family at risk and on the run with the suspect, a teen and the journalist sister of one of the victims it's just as well that Sam never gives up and will fight til his dying breath. Because that's what it might take for everyone to get out alive. Archer and co. are facing insurmountable odds and villains prepared to watch a city burn in this breakneck paced thriller that I thoroughly recommend to all lovers of great books.
Sam's partner's son is killed by the same Sniper who is responsible for two other deaths. When CTU is sidelined by the FBI and the prime suspect is an old friend of his Sam finds himself heading for DC and a whole lot of trouble. It soon becomes clear that nothing is as it seems and if he doesn't figure things out quickly it's not just his life that could be lost. With his family at risk and on the run with the suspect, a teen and the journalist sister of one of the victims it's just as well that Sam never gives up and will fight til his dying breath. Because that's what it might take for everyone to get out alive. Archer and co. are facing insurmountable odds and villains prepared to watch a city burn in this breakneck paced thriller that I thoroughly recommend to all lovers of great books.
October 26, 2018
This book left me with mixed feelings. I haven't read the previous books in the series and after reading this one, I'm not really regretting it.
When the author writes that the main character is dead at the start of the book, you know with certainty he's just toying with the reader. And the use of comma after comma, endlessly expanding sentences, describing yet another part of the scene, without starting another sentence, time after time, until you wonder when it's going to end, drove me nuts.
The plot was mildly interesting and the writing not bad (apart from the comma thing), but I won't be reading any more from this author.
I'd give 2.5 out of 5 if I could, but I'm feeling generous, so I'm rounding up to 3.
When the author writes that the main character is dead at the start of the book, you know with certainty he's just toying with the reader. And the use of comma after comma, endlessly expanding sentences, describing yet another part of the scene, without starting another sentence, time after time, until you wonder when it's going to end, drove me nuts.
The plot was mildly interesting and the writing not bad (apart from the comma thing), but I won't be reading any more from this author.
I'd give 2.5 out of 5 if I could, but I'm feeling generous, so I'm rounding up to 3.
October 28, 2018
Unbelievable
Although i wanted to finish the book, it git so unbelievable at the end that it was hard to do. The suspense is definitely there but the two main characters are indestructible beyond all belief. It reads like a violent video game. I like Sam Archer but I'm not sure I'll read any more of the series. I believe this is book 8. In addition, as you get toward the end of the book, there are some editing issues and that's a real sticking point with me. When I have to read a sentence several times because of the use of a wrong word, etc., that's an issue with me. Someone got lazy.
Although i wanted to finish the book, it git so unbelievable at the end that it was hard to do. The suspense is definitely there but the two main characters are indestructible beyond all belief. It reads like a violent video game. I like Sam Archer but I'm not sure I'll read any more of the series. I believe this is book 8. In addition, as you get toward the end of the book, there are some editing issues and that's a real sticking point with me. When I have to read a sentence several times because of the use of a wrong word, etc., that's an issue with me. Someone got lazy.
August 18, 2020
When an old acquaintance of Sam Archer is accused of being a deadly sniper killing people indiscriminately on the streets of America he puts aside his plans and goes to help him, as he is certain that he could not be guilty of the crime. He is soon dragged into a violent fight for survival on the streets of Washington DC where everyone seems to want to kill him at any cost. None of it makes sense and as well as surviving he has to work out why it is all happening.
There is lots of gun play action in this book and a thriller as well trying to figure out what, why and who is behind the events.
An enjoyable mindless read.
There is lots of gun play action in this book and a thriller as well trying to figure out what, why and who is behind the events.
An enjoyable mindless read.
November 16, 2018
(3). If you are looking for a high energy book, just turn to page one here. The pace at which this story moves is almost unbelievable. One high powered scene after another. Sam Archer is a pretty cool protagonist, but the action here is the real driver. Except for the somewhat annoying habit of explaining what has created a twist in the plot right after it happens this is pretty solid. I hope to explore a few of the others in this series. Good stuff.
March 3, 2020
4 heros
Sam has a secret assignment, locate and bring in a suspected shooter, who he knows. Ledger also happens to be a cop, and an ex sharpshooter. Sam finds him and discovers Ledger has been set up. Now it's a race to survive in a riot torn city. They are joined by a young kid, and a journalist. Working together, they help to save a targeted school and try to make it out alive.
Sam has a secret assignment, locate and bring in a suspected shooter, who he knows. Ledger also happens to be a cop, and an ex sharpshooter. Sam finds him and discovers Ledger has been set up. Now it's a race to survive in a riot torn city. They are joined by a young kid, and a journalist. Working together, they help to save a targeted school and try to make it out alive.
February 18, 2022
Action packed
What a series. Packed of action all the way. The hero is not alone In his fight against criminals of types and backgrounds. There are so many strong characters in his endeavors that deserved to be call heroes also. The sudden change of scenery or actions threw me out at first because a lost my concentration but I realized this style fits perfectly with fast action events. I loved it all!
What a series. Packed of action all the way. The hero is not alone In his fight against criminals of types and backgrounds. There are so many strong characters in his endeavors that deserved to be call heroes also. The sudden change of scenery or actions threw me out at first because a lost my concentration but I realized this style fits perfectly with fast action events. I loved it all!
May 14, 2022
Starting with the hero’s death, the reader is shot into the tension stratosphere in this fast-paced thriller. Then they are kept there as the story flings back to follow his journey to that point that is set in the chaos and high emotions of rioting, triggered by murders and a manhunt for the murderer. Hard to put down, it is an eager page-turner for the reader who likes thrillers, justice for the wrongly accused, and dudes with special ops skills.
August 14, 2022
This is a very exciting, bang-up, explosive adventure. Sam Archer, the hero, seems to have 9 lives.
This book could use more character work. Ledger was really the only one I felt was developed enough to care about. And the aliases for some of the bad guys made it hard to distinguish who's who, at times. But maybe that wasn't so important as long as they were shooting and throwing grenades at the good guys?
This book could use more character work. Ledger was really the only one I felt was developed enough to care about. And the aliases for some of the bad guys made it hard to distinguish who's who, at times. But maybe that wasn't so important as long as they were shooting and throwing grenades at the good guys?
February 15, 2024
Last Breath
Another great action adventure from Tom Barber.
You will never be disappointed reading Sam Archer stories.
My only criticism is how the last chapters were written. Since this is one in a series we know the probable outcome. However how the fatal drowning in the pool was glanced over was wrong. We needed the niece’s relief to complete it. We also needed closure with Sarah.
However the train ending was a master stroke.
Another great action adventure from Tom Barber.
You will never be disappointed reading Sam Archer stories.
My only criticism is how the last chapters were written. Since this is one in a series we know the probable outcome. However how the fatal drowning in the pool was glanced over was wrong. We needed the niece’s relief to complete it. We also needed closure with Sarah.
However the train ending was a master stroke.
October 6, 2018
Gasp and you'll miss it
Set reality aside for the moment and jump headlong into another break neck speed adventure with Sam Archer. Teaming up with experts and roo k lies alike to fight evil against all odds Sam wins out and quietly goes on his way. These books don't go quietly pick them up read them and look for the next.
Set reality aside for the moment and jump headlong into another break neck speed adventure with Sam Archer. Teaming up with experts and roo k lies alike to fight evil against all odds Sam wins out and quietly goes on his way. These books don't go quietly pick them up read them and look for the next.
May 29, 2019
- I don’t like his mixing the time line. Book should have started around chapter six, would have been easier to understand. Once it gets going I don’t want to put it down. Some wild story with all kinds of twists. Then near the end it drags a little trying to get the reader to understand his convoluted story line. Overall it is a five star read.
January 24, 2020
This book was so intensely written that I had a full blown panic attack.
I am a voracious reader and can, and do, say this story was the most authentic thriller I have read. I am still so shell-shocked I can only follow up with a cozy mystery.....someone to hold my hand for a while until I can 'recover. Thanks for writing. Whew.I
I am a voracious reader and can, and do, say this story was the most authentic thriller I have read. I am still so shell-shocked I can only follow up with a cozy mystery.....someone to hold my hand for a while until I can 'recover. Thanks for writing. Whew.I
December 28, 2021
Last Breath
I really enjoyed this book. There is a lot of action in the book, almost too much action sometimes. They just get out of one difficult situation and end up in another one almost immediately. If reality in a book is a great need for you, this book might not be the best option for you. But it sure keeps you engaged!
I really enjoyed this book. There is a lot of action in the book, almost too much action sometimes. They just get out of one difficult situation and end up in another one almost immediately. If reality in a book is a great need for you, this book might not be the best option for you. But it sure keeps you engaged!
May 1, 2018
I can't believe that this series is close to ending!!
I have been reading the San Archer book series for a while. I have never been disappointed. Each book is full of action and keeps the reader guessing. I can't wait to begin the next book.
I have been reading the San Archer book series for a while. I have never been disappointed. Each book is full of action and keeps the reader guessing. I can't wait to begin the next book.
October 8, 2018
Thrill ride!
This action/adventure book is an unending thrill ride! The action, once it starts, never stops to the very last page. An enthralling story, with relevant action to today’s news, it definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat! Love this book!
This action/adventure book is an unending thrill ride! The action, once it starts, never stops to the very last page. An enthralling story, with relevant action to today’s news, it definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat! Love this book!
October 13, 2018
Super Heroes of “D.C. has fallen”
Australia born, England raised, U.S. trained, the story line links NSA, Mexican arm cartels and internet white hackers. It is read like a movie “D.C. has fallen”.
Australia born, England raised, U.S. trained, the story line links NSA, Mexican arm cartels and internet white hackers. It is read like a movie “D.C. has fallen”.
October 14, 2018
Sam Archer Serves
Talk about heart stopping, this book stopped mine a few times. The first time within the first paragraph. Along with the other Sam Archer books this one displays great writing foresight and imagination. Great Read
Talk about heart stopping, this book stopped mine a few times. The first time within the first paragraph. Along with the other Sam Archer books this one displays great writing foresight and imagination. Great Read
October 18, 2018
Last Breath Thriller
I enjoyed this thriller but thought the low opinion of law enforcement in the U.S. was a little carried away. The main character, Sam Archer, is drowned and left for dead. Do not try this at home! CE Williams free download from Bookbun
I enjoyed this thriller but thought the low opinion of law enforcement in the U.S. was a little carried away. The main character, Sam Archer, is drowned and left for dead. Do not try this at home! CE Williams free download from Bookbun
October 20, 2018
Overall I did enjoy this book. It is fast paced and the characters are well defined. I must apologize in advance though for finding a few things that annoyed me as I read it. See my notes as I highlighted these minor quibbles.
October 26, 2018
Great book.
This is a real page turner, the characters were real life and you were on the edge of the edge of your seat all the way through. There are good books and there's great ones, which are few and far between. This was great.
This is a real page turner, the characters were real life and you were on the edge of the edge of your seat all the way through. There are good books and there's great ones, which are few and far between. This was great.
November 2, 2018
Couldn't put it down!!
This book is full of interesting twists and turns. The writing is intense, and it keeps the reader guessing. There are some editing errors that cause some confusion in parts of the book, but I've seen much worse. I would recommend this book!
This book is full of interesting twists and turns. The writing is intense, and it keeps the reader guessing. There are some editing errors that cause some confusion in parts of the book, but I've seen much worse. I would recommend this book!
November 6, 2018
Thoroughly enjoyable!!!
Need to read all of the books in this series! Very fast paced. Kept me turning page after page... Archer is a great character.
Great writing and plot. Very tense and suspenseful!
Need to read all of the books in this series! Very fast paced. Kept me turning page after page... Archer is a great character.
Great writing and plot. Very tense and suspenseful!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews