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Micah Reed #1
Nailgun Messiah
A devoted cult member. An unforgiving leader. One man’s last chance to save his sister… Micah Reed has a knack for ticking off the wrong people at the wrong time. When his latest attempt to do the right thing angers some drug dealers, he takes refuge in the sleepy mountain town of Nederland. He plans on finding his sister Magda and disappearing into obscurity with her. Micah is in for a big surprise…
When he learns his sister lives on a commune, Micah immediately butts heads with Lilah, the ever-watchful woman in charge. As the cult leader turns her menacing attentions toward him, Micah senses an even greater threat that no one else sees coming…
Can he convince Magda to flee to safety before it’s too late, or will he lose her forever in the process?
Nailgun Messiah is the first book in the Micah Reed series, a set of edge-of-your-seat thrillers. If you like complex characters, realistic dialogue, and layers upon layers of suspenseful tension, then you’ll love Jim Heskett’s cult classic in the making.
Buy Nailgun Messiah to follow the leader today!
When he learns his sister lives on a commune, Micah immediately butts heads with Lilah, the ever-watchful woman in charge. As the cult leader turns her menacing attentions toward him, Micah senses an even greater threat that no one else sees coming…
Can he convince Magda to flee to safety before it’s too late, or will he lose her forever in the process?
Nailgun Messiah is the first book in the Micah Reed series, a set of edge-of-your-seat thrillers. If you like complex characters, realistic dialogue, and layers upon layers of suspenseful tension, then you’ll love Jim Heskett’s cult classic in the making.
Buy Nailgun Messiah to follow the leader today!
296 pages, ebook
Published February 4, 2016
289 people are currently reading
1164 people want to read
About the author
Jim Heskett
68 books252 followersJim Heskett is a writer of short and long fiction, currently slaving away at a laptop in an undisclosed location in Broomfield, Colorado. Details about previous and future publications can be found at www.jimheskett.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
May 27, 2021
A drop out from the Wit-Sec program finds himself in trouble again. Needing to get out of town forthwith, he decides to stay with his sister, even though she thinks he is dead.
It doesn't go well. Turns out, she belongs to a millennial cult, with all sorts of rules. The cult has plans of its own, and others are after the cult. How to get himself and his sister out without being killed is more of a problem than the one he ran from.
Not too bad. Some tension, and a few twists make this one stand out from the pack.
It doesn't go well. Turns out, she belongs to a millennial cult, with all sorts of rules. The cult has plans of its own, and others are after the cult. How to get himself and his sister out without being killed is more of a problem than the one he ran from.
Not too bad. Some tension, and a few twists make this one stand out from the pack.
July 15, 2020
Interesting story of mystery and intrigue.
Trouble just does not seem to leave Micah alone. He was in Witness Protection Program and then he meets a woman there who is a drug runner. Micah takes the blame for the woman and he ends up in trouble with the drug dealer. As if that is not enough, after this when he goes to his sister's house for staying safe, he finds that his sister belongs in a strict cult which further adds to his trouble.
How he gets himself and his sister out of that forms the story.
The plot is interesting and there is enough character development and suspense to keep it entertaining all the way through.
Trouble just does not seem to leave Micah alone. He was in Witness Protection Program and then he meets a woman there who is a drug runner. Micah takes the blame for the woman and he ends up in trouble with the drug dealer. As if that is not enough, after this when he goes to his sister's house for staying safe, he finds that his sister belongs in a strict cult which further adds to his trouble.
How he gets himself and his sister out of that forms the story.
The plot is interesting and there is enough character development and suspense to keep it entertaining all the way through.
May 17, 2017
Rating: 2.5/5
***Minor spoilers***
After going through the Witness Protection Program, Micah Reed has settled down in Denver, but trouble doesn't avoid him for long. He meets a woman who he hits it off with, but she ends up being a drug runner. When the cops show up to her apartment, she ends up having to flush the coke down the toilet, and she's deadly afraid of getting in trouble with Seth, the dealer. Not being able to resist, Micah takes the blame, but Seth goes after him with vengeance. Desperate to escape the situation, Micah goes to his sister, who he hasn't seen since before WP and is probably pretty mad at him. When she finds her, he asks to stay with her a while, not knowing what he's getting in to. It turns out that his sister, Magda, is in a cult of some sort, led by a woman named Lilah who keeps the members of the household on a tight leash - no contact between sexes, bible study twice a week, must always obey. Micah needs to find a way to get Magda out of there before everything goes wrong.
This book started off a bit shaky with me. It was pretty confusing, and Micah wasn't really all that likeable. I never really grew to like him during the book, but it was particularly bad in the beginning. At first I didn't understand what this book was going to be about, but once we get to the part where Micah shows up in the house and realizes where Magda has been, it gets better, but also weirder. This book basically follows a religious cult who is deeming some people "chosen" to go to heaven after the seals of hell are broken. It's pretty weird and I think someone who doesn't have a good understanding of the concept (through their own religion, research, or watching TV *cough* Supernatural) would be confused at what the point of the cult is. It's interesting, but not great.
In fact, I could describe pretty much the entire book as interesting, but not great. The characters were okay, the plot was okay, but there was nothing to really make it more than okay. I felt that the book dragged on a bit until you got to the end, where things moved so fast it was a bit hard to keep up with. The ending was okay, I won't give spoilers but I didn't expect it.
Overall, this book was okay, but it could have been better. The concept was confusing at times, and it felt a bit long and repetitive even though the book was relatively short. I wish Micah was more relatable or likeable, because there isn't really any other character who is "on screen" nearly as much as him, so he's pretty much all you get. I wouldn't recommend it per se, but if you decided to read it I wouldn't advise against it.
***Minor spoilers***
After going through the Witness Protection Program, Micah Reed has settled down in Denver, but trouble doesn't avoid him for long. He meets a woman who he hits it off with, but she ends up being a drug runner. When the cops show up to her apartment, she ends up having to flush the coke down the toilet, and she's deadly afraid of getting in trouble with Seth, the dealer. Not being able to resist, Micah takes the blame, but Seth goes after him with vengeance. Desperate to escape the situation, Micah goes to his sister, who he hasn't seen since before WP and is probably pretty mad at him. When she finds her, he asks to stay with her a while, not knowing what he's getting in to. It turns out that his sister, Magda, is in a cult of some sort, led by a woman named Lilah who keeps the members of the household on a tight leash - no contact between sexes, bible study twice a week, must always obey. Micah needs to find a way to get Magda out of there before everything goes wrong.
This book started off a bit shaky with me. It was pretty confusing, and Micah wasn't really all that likeable. I never really grew to like him during the book, but it was particularly bad in the beginning. At first I didn't understand what this book was going to be about, but once we get to the part where Micah shows up in the house and realizes where Magda has been, it gets better, but also weirder. This book basically follows a religious cult who is deeming some people "chosen" to go to heaven after the seals of hell are broken. It's pretty weird and I think someone who doesn't have a good understanding of the concept (through their own religion, research, or watching TV *cough* Supernatural) would be confused at what the point of the cult is. It's interesting, but not great.
In fact, I could describe pretty much the entire book as interesting, but not great. The characters were okay, the plot was okay, but there was nothing to really make it more than okay. I felt that the book dragged on a bit until you got to the end, where things moved so fast it was a bit hard to keep up with. The ending was okay, I won't give spoilers but I didn't expect it.
Overall, this book was okay, but it could have been better. The concept was confusing at times, and it felt a bit long and repetitive even though the book was relatively short. I wish Micah was more relatable or likeable, because there isn't really any other character who is "on screen" nearly as much as him, so he's pretty much all you get. I wouldn't recommend it per se, but if you decided to read it I wouldn't advise against it.
September 30, 2019
This book was freaking awesome. It was filled with mystery, intrigue, twists, and more than a few, "Oh my God," moments. It was impeccably written, although the sentence fragments were bothersome at the beginning. It read almost like an episode of Dragnet, the TV series made in the 60s. But I forgot all about it as the story started. It didn't take long.
Micah Reed is in trouble with a drug dealer in Denver and needs an escape so decides it's time to go pay a visit to his sister in Nederland. When he gets there, he is surprised at how she is living. Not only is she living in a commune, but she's in cult, headed by the psychotic leader, Lilah.
Lilah has everyone under her control. She takes passports, cell phones, driver's licenses, and anything else that might give the followers their freedom. Men and women are not suppose to speak to each other. She decides where everybody is going to have jobs. She is a diabolical woman standing six feet tall with a shaved head and the propensity for violence.
She believes that a man named Cyrus, who is serving time, is the lamb or the "Chosen One" and has been doing things his way for the past eight years (the time he has been incarcerated). She has a countdown going on for when he is being released, which happens to be just a matter of days.
Backing her is an Indian guy by the name of Eagle. He was a fascinating enigma. I kept thinking there was more to him than was being told. *No spoilers*
All of the characters in the story are worth mentioning but the majority of the book is focused on Micah trying to get Magda out of the clutches of Lilah, Eagle, and Cyrus.
This is truly a great book. I enjoyed every minute of it and want to read the next book in the series.
*I obtained a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
**Reviewed for Book Review 22
Micah Reed is in trouble with a drug dealer in Denver and needs an escape so decides it's time to go pay a visit to his sister in Nederland. When he gets there, he is surprised at how she is living. Not only is she living in a commune, but she's in cult, headed by the psychotic leader, Lilah.
Lilah has everyone under her control. She takes passports, cell phones, driver's licenses, and anything else that might give the followers their freedom. Men and women are not suppose to speak to each other. She decides where everybody is going to have jobs. She is a diabolical woman standing six feet tall with a shaved head and the propensity for violence.
She believes that a man named Cyrus, who is serving time, is the lamb or the "Chosen One" and has been doing things his way for the past eight years (the time he has been incarcerated). She has a countdown going on for when he is being released, which happens to be just a matter of days.
Backing her is an Indian guy by the name of Eagle. He was a fascinating enigma. I kept thinking there was more to him than was being told. *No spoilers*
All of the characters in the story are worth mentioning but the majority of the book is focused on Micah trying to get Magda out of the clutches of Lilah, Eagle, and Cyrus.
This is truly a great book. I enjoyed every minute of it and want to read the next book in the series.
*I obtained a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
**Reviewed for Book Review 22
February 7, 2016
Micah Reed might have been acting in good faith but he finds out that when you lie to drug dealers, you can end up in a whole load of trouble. Moving into his sister’s home for refuge opens another Pandora’s Box for him. On the other hand, it could turn out to be a blessing in disguise and present them both an opportunity to heal old wounds.
There is no chance for boredom to settle in as Jim Heskett springs a new twist on every page of the book. The title is attention grabbing and rings true of the protagonist who in his characteristic macho style tackles every obstacle that comes his way. Nailgun Messiah is another entertaining read from an author who has a penchant for writing fast-paced thrillers.
There is no chance for boredom to settle in as Jim Heskett springs a new twist on every page of the book. The title is attention grabbing and rings true of the protagonist who in his characteristic macho style tackles every obstacle that comes his way. Nailgun Messiah is another entertaining read from an author who has a penchant for writing fast-paced thrillers.
September 2, 2016
I'm hooked! An amazing new (to me) author! I've already gone out & got the next book & am trying to get the prequel as well. Heskett does an amazing job of character development, I'm a character reader, I get into what makes a character who they are. What makes them tick. His story line is complete & satisfying as well. As I said I'll be reading more by this author!
November 15, 2016
The first 75% of this book was really good; that's why I gave it 4 stars. I was interested and engaged and REALLY wanted to know how it was going to end. The ending though? I don't know. It just wasn't what I expected. It seemed SO far fetched and all happened really quickly. I'll probably still read the rest of the books in the series as I am super interested in the character.
September 9, 2016
An intriguing story of deception, family, cults and criminals, written in clear direct language. The characters are developed in depth and realistic. There are few surprises as the plot develops, but the action and interaction keeps the reader interested and entertained.
March 27, 2017
Before getting into the review, in the interest of full disclosure this was free from Google Play/Book Bub, and to some degree I finished this because I started it (which is kind of a general rule of mine).
Why mention the above? Because if I had paid for this I think the review would be harsher, as I feel like I got my money's worth. There was also more than one time when I thought about just deleting the book from my phone. I managed to work through those sections of the book that were giving me fits, and I will give Heskett credit for coming up with a couple of small good twists that just did manage to keep me from dropping this book completely.
Micah Reed, well that's not his real name, because you see he is in the witness protection program for testifying against a Mexican cartel. Micah has managed to talk the feds into letting him relocate to Denver where he has gone to work for a bounty hunter (pretty much just those who jump bail) who is also Micah's AA sponsor.
This doesn't stop Micah from continuing his string of making bad personal decisions. First, it's getting hooked up with a woman who is a drug mule for a Denver pusher. This leads to Micah having to blow Denver for a little while and he decides to go see his sister. A sister who has taken up with a cult in a small town in Denver.
The character work on Reed is ok, but more needed to be done with the cult. I couldn't get involved with those characters, and at best I just saw one of them as very unbalanced. Its all right for a thriller to not have a lot of action pieces, but in that instance it helps to really draw the reader in with compelling characters.
Micah's journey to redemption could be interesting, and Heskett give some hints that he has a grasp on what needs to be done there to keep readers involved. Micah did some bad things while working for the cartel and being an alcoholic. Now, he wants to try and correct some of those mistakes, but he is also realizing that he may not be able to save everyone.
Why mention the above? Because if I had paid for this I think the review would be harsher, as I feel like I got my money's worth. There was also more than one time when I thought about just deleting the book from my phone. I managed to work through those sections of the book that were giving me fits, and I will give Heskett credit for coming up with a couple of small good twists that just did manage to keep me from dropping this book completely.
Micah Reed, well that's not his real name, because you see he is in the witness protection program for testifying against a Mexican cartel. Micah has managed to talk the feds into letting him relocate to Denver where he has gone to work for a bounty hunter (pretty much just those who jump bail) who is also Micah's AA sponsor.
This doesn't stop Micah from continuing his string of making bad personal decisions. First, it's getting hooked up with a woman who is a drug mule for a Denver pusher. This leads to Micah having to blow Denver for a little while and he decides to go see his sister. A sister who has taken up with a cult in a small town in Denver.
The character work on Reed is ok, but more needed to be done with the cult. I couldn't get involved with those characters, and at best I just saw one of them as very unbalanced. Its all right for a thriller to not have a lot of action pieces, but in that instance it helps to really draw the reader in with compelling characters.
Micah's journey to redemption could be interesting, and Heskett give some hints that he has a grasp on what needs to be done there to keep readers involved. Micah did some bad things while working for the cartel and being an alcoholic. Now, he wants to try and correct some of those mistakes, but he is also realizing that he may not be able to save everyone.
January 5, 2016
I think the name of this book is eye catching because it's pretty hilarious-at least I think it is. It totally fits though and is absolutely perfect for the story. This is a highly addicting book, I did not want to put it down until I finished it. It has so many elements that I love it was thrilling, fast paced and had a bit of a mystery to it too.
Micha is a recovering alcoholic living as a bounty hunter. When he gets involved with the wrong girl he finds himself leaving town to avoid angry people with big connections. He seeks out his sister who he hasn't seen in years and finds that her life is not quite what he expected. She is living in a sort of commune with other men and women being controlled by a mean woman named Lilah. They are highly religious people that worship under a man named Cyrus. Micha thinks he and his sister are in danger with this cult and he might not be wrong. Can he save his sister before it's too late?
This book immediately starts in action, with Micha being in trouble. He seems like that bad boy that every girl thinks they can tame but they can't. I really, really like his character. I'm not sure I can say it's believable but it worked for him so I didn't even care. It was awesome how he really just wanted to get his sister away from those crazy people.
I felt so bad for all the normal people that got wrapped up in this cult and were really just trying to live their lives. Like Hannah and Garrett, really a married couple that was not allowed to sleep in the same room or even speak to each other. That's just crazy, though I imagine my husband would probably enjoy the whole no talking thing. I also thought it was stupid that Magna couldn't talk to Micha. That's her brother not just some guy, why shouldn't they be able to talk? Oh and don't even get me started on poor Rodney.
Eagle and Lilah, were the best villains in this. I'm not really sure villains is the right word here but that's how I viewed them. Cyrus too, I actually started to feel bad for Lilah when she was around him. Then I remembered who she was and ignored that feeling and moved on.
This book is perfect for anyone that loves a thrilling, fast paced, action packed book. It was an awesome read and I'm so glad that I got to read it! It keeps you on your toes and guessing what's coming next throughout the whole book.
Micha is a recovering alcoholic living as a bounty hunter. When he gets involved with the wrong girl he finds himself leaving town to avoid angry people with big connections. He seeks out his sister who he hasn't seen in years and finds that her life is not quite what he expected. She is living in a sort of commune with other men and women being controlled by a mean woman named Lilah. They are highly religious people that worship under a man named Cyrus. Micha thinks he and his sister are in danger with this cult and he might not be wrong. Can he save his sister before it's too late?
This book immediately starts in action, with Micha being in trouble. He seems like that bad boy that every girl thinks they can tame but they can't. I really, really like his character. I'm not sure I can say it's believable but it worked for him so I didn't even care. It was awesome how he really just wanted to get his sister away from those crazy people.
I felt so bad for all the normal people that got wrapped up in this cult and were really just trying to live their lives. Like Hannah and Garrett, really a married couple that was not allowed to sleep in the same room or even speak to each other. That's just crazy, though I imagine my husband would probably enjoy the whole no talking thing. I also thought it was stupid that Magna couldn't talk to Micha. That's her brother not just some guy, why shouldn't they be able to talk? Oh and don't even get me started on poor Rodney.
Eagle and Lilah, were the best villains in this. I'm not really sure villains is the right word here but that's how I viewed them. Cyrus too, I actually started to feel bad for Lilah when she was around him. Then I remembered who she was and ignored that feeling and moved on.
This book is perfect for anyone that loves a thrilling, fast paced, action packed book. It was an awesome read and I'm so glad that I got to read it! It keeps you on your toes and guessing what's coming next throughout the whole book.
February 6, 2016
Note: Book for free from author in exchange for review. This does not obligate me to give a good review, only an honest one.
Fortunately, this is a pretty good book, free or not. Micah is kidnapped by a drug dealer because he stole some cocaine. MIcah leaves town and goes to the only person he thinks he can: his sister in Nederland. But she’s in a tripped-up situation herself, living in a commune rigorously controlled by the apparent leader, Lilah, a fantastic baker and an extremely cruel and violent taskmaster.
And that, my dear readers, is all I can safely report on the plot. The story is pretty good with some lulls in place that serve as resting points and the calm before the next phase of the storm. Never was I bored. The characters are all interesting, even the purple-haired mohawk guy (think it was a mohawk). There is a history in the place that Micah stumbles into with you, and he knows nearly as much as you. And that’s all he learns in the time he’s in Ned(erland).
There are plenty of mysteries to keep you guessing, and while there are resolutions to most of them, they aren’t necessarily explained. For the most part, that doesn’t matter, but a couple I would really like to know more. Only one has the potential to be addressed in the future (that I can see), and one that must remain shrouded in the murky past of this book.
Thank you, Mr. Heskett, for a book worthy to be read and applauded. Highly recommended. A solid 4.5 stars, so a fiver.
Fortunately, this is a pretty good book, free or not. Micah is kidnapped by a drug dealer because he stole some cocaine. MIcah leaves town and goes to the only person he thinks he can: his sister in Nederland. But she’s in a tripped-up situation herself, living in a commune rigorously controlled by the apparent leader, Lilah, a fantastic baker and an extremely cruel and violent taskmaster.
And that, my dear readers, is all I can safely report on the plot. The story is pretty good with some lulls in place that serve as resting points and the calm before the next phase of the storm. Never was I bored. The characters are all interesting, even the purple-haired mohawk guy (think it was a mohawk). There is a history in the place that Micah stumbles into with you, and he knows nearly as much as you. And that’s all he learns in the time he’s in Ned(erland).
There are plenty of mysteries to keep you guessing, and while there are resolutions to most of them, they aren’t necessarily explained. For the most part, that doesn’t matter, but a couple I would really like to know more. Only one has the potential to be addressed in the future (that I can see), and one that must remain shrouded in the murky past of this book.
Thank you, Mr. Heskett, for a book worthy to be read and applauded. Highly recommended. A solid 4.5 stars, so a fiver.
February 6, 2016
Micah Reed returns in Nailgun Messiah, the nail-biting sequel to last year’s Airbag Scars. Heskett proves once again that he is the master of dialing up the tension. In this story, Micah is hiding from a highly displeased drug dealer while simultaneously trying to save his sister from a bizarre cult.
What I particularly love about this book are the characters. Micah is one to root for, flaws and all. He’s a man with a past who is trying to make up for his mistakes and avoid making new ones, and his struggle really draws you in. The supporting characters are equally vivid. Lilah, the principal antagonist, is terrifying and heartbreaking all at once.
While this is a sequel, you shouldn’t have any trouble following the story if you start with this one. I’ve read a number of Heskett’s books, and this one is my favorite thus far.
What I particularly love about this book are the characters. Micah is one to root for, flaws and all. He’s a man with a past who is trying to make up for his mistakes and avoid making new ones, and his struggle really draws you in. The supporting characters are equally vivid. Lilah, the principal antagonist, is terrifying and heartbreaking all at once.
While this is a sequel, you shouldn’t have any trouble following the story if you start with this one. I’ve read a number of Heskett’s books, and this one is my favorite thus far.
February 12, 2016
This book was fun. Different twist to an old familiar story but lots of action. Good story line, good characters and a great finish. You gotta read it !
August 23, 2017
Reviewed for Readers Favorite
For most of his life Micah Reed has been a screw up, drinking his way through life, but the trouble he finds himself in this night has nothing to do with him, really, unfortunately the big bad drug dealer isn't willing to believe him. Micah is able to escape and finds himself needing to get out of town for awhile, and although visiting his sister is forbidden, that's exactly what he does, which turns out to be a good thing. His little sister has gotten herself into, what she thinks is a religious group, but is really just a front for other illegal activities. Micah knows he has to get his sister out, but she is not really inclined to trust him based on his past record of screwing up. Nailgun Messiah is complex and multilayered story of all the people living in the house and the complex relationships and controls extorted over them. Author Jim Heskett has developed so many levels that you don't know who is really a friend or a foe until the very end.
Nailgun Messiah is titled as the first book in the Micah Reed series, so it would seem that the author Jim Heskett is planning to follow the main character through a few more books, which could be exciting. This book was full of adventure and intrigue, trying to figure how who was on what side, who you could trust and who you couldn't. Even after all that, I still found a few questions that I never got fully answered, which is the mark of a good book, it leaves you still wondering about certain small parts and then there is the possibility that they show up again later in another book. This was a really good book, although there were themes of violence and mind control, in case any readers have issues with that. Definitely worth the read.
For most of his life Micah Reed has been a screw up, drinking his way through life, but the trouble he finds himself in this night has nothing to do with him, really, unfortunately the big bad drug dealer isn't willing to believe him. Micah is able to escape and finds himself needing to get out of town for awhile, and although visiting his sister is forbidden, that's exactly what he does, which turns out to be a good thing. His little sister has gotten herself into, what she thinks is a religious group, but is really just a front for other illegal activities. Micah knows he has to get his sister out, but she is not really inclined to trust him based on his past record of screwing up. Nailgun Messiah is complex and multilayered story of all the people living in the house and the complex relationships and controls extorted over them. Author Jim Heskett has developed so many levels that you don't know who is really a friend or a foe until the very end.
Nailgun Messiah is titled as the first book in the Micah Reed series, so it would seem that the author Jim Heskett is planning to follow the main character through a few more books, which could be exciting. This book was full of adventure and intrigue, trying to figure how who was on what side, who you could trust and who you couldn't. Even after all that, I still found a few questions that I never got fully answered, which is the mark of a good book, it leaves you still wondering about certain small parts and then there is the possibility that they show up again later in another book. This was a really good book, although there were themes of violence and mind control, in case any readers have issues with that. Definitely worth the read.
April 3, 2018
This book starts off in a kind of crazy situation and goes forward from there. Throughout the book Micah has run-ins with cult leaders, drug dealers, murderers, and a priest. He gets a job in a hardware store, learns how to snow-shoe, and goes to the Frozen Dead Guy Festival. He gets kidnapped, beaten up, stabbed in the leg with a screwdriver, and almost shot with a nail gun. And yes, it is just as bizarre and intriguing as it sounds, Which means it keeps you engaged while you read because you're never quite sure what might happen next.
Micah has a complicated past and makes some questionable choices, but this just makes him more human and relatable. Even when I was thinking, "WHAT are you DOING?!" I could recognize the fact that Micah makes decisions like the rest of us do: from emotion, from selfishness, and from a million other factors. Many protagonists in this type of book seem like they know everything and are always 2-5 steps ahead of everyone else. There's a certain kind of appeal in those characters, but having a protagonist who reacts like many of the rest of us might is a nice change of pace and makes for a different kind of reading experience.
This isn't a genre I typically read on a regular basis, but I really enjoyed this book and would like to continue with the series because I want to find out more about Micah, and I want to see where he goes from here, how he changes, if he starts making better decisions.
Micah has a complicated past and makes some questionable choices, but this just makes him more human and relatable. Even when I was thinking, "WHAT are you DOING?!" I could recognize the fact that Micah makes decisions like the rest of us do: from emotion, from selfishness, and from a million other factors. Many protagonists in this type of book seem like they know everything and are always 2-5 steps ahead of everyone else. There's a certain kind of appeal in those characters, but having a protagonist who reacts like many of the rest of us might is a nice change of pace and makes for a different kind of reading experience.
This isn't a genre I typically read on a regular basis, but I really enjoyed this book and would like to continue with the series because I want to find out more about Micah, and I want to see where he goes from here, how he changes, if he starts making better decisions.
December 2, 2016
An interesting read. I was not prepared to see the world through the eyes of an alcoholic, but the writer did a good job of it. Some of the quirky nature of the main character's actions can be attributed to his addiction. The characters, though not people I would care to associate with in real life, do come alive in the story. The violence in the story is integrated so that it's believable, but I still have a problem with the female cult leader turning on her messiah. That part stretched the story outside the zone of believable. Yet all the other stuff can and has happened in reality. This story just reminds us what a scary world we live in. On an aside, I would think a single nail through the forehead would be enough to kill most people. That dude was one tough mutha.
February 14, 2018
First of all let me rant for a moment. I DESPISE people who "review" a book by writing a complete synopsis so you won't find any surprises IF you decide to read the book. I don't need your description to help me decide to read a book. I need your thoughts and feelings about the writing and the premise. This writer not only gave me a great book to read that showed people at their best and worst, he also helped me understand an illness I've been lucky enough not to become involved in. Also, it showed a flawed man who we can all relate to. Jim Heskett offers you a FREE prequel to this book on his sight so those interested could read it for a complete look at his character, Micah Reed. Don't miss this series. I, for one, am looking forward to a great time with each book.
February 18, 2019
Nothing like a story about a cult story with characters that nail it. Psychopathic temporary leader of the cult character, and in full control over vulnerable lives, while not in any sort of control over her own life fortunately messes up enough...well...no spoilers here...just have to read it to get it. Then a loving Brother does his best to rescue but falls short a bit here and there...and a plot that carries all that to fruition and the reader is the WINNER, as is the Nailgun Messiah a WINNER! What wonderful writing by Jim Heskett brings to the table for the reader. Fast paced, lots of action, many breathless moments, and none of that does real justice to how great a book Nailgun Messiah turns out to be. I HIGHLY recommend Nailgun Messiah. ENJOY!!!
July 18, 2020
In my opinion Nailgun Killer is very slow moving, I figure it's because it's the first of the series. The prologue grabbed my attention then everything slowed way down. The first couple of chapters had action then nothing. I found things a little confusing then I got the jist of the story. All the action happens at then end of the story. I find Micah interesting and very flawed, but trying to redeem himself for past transgressions. Jim Heskett did throw a couple of twist. I wanted a little more of how Magda got involved with the cult. Overall it's okay, I will continue to read the Micah Reed Series because I want to see how Micah continues on his journey of redemption goes. I read on Kindle Unlimited.
May 17, 2021
Drugs, cults and witness protection!
Micah Reed is a reformed alcoholic/drug addict who used to work for a Mexican care until he turned evidence and entered witness protection. Unfortunately his choice of girlfriend is unreliable when he discovers she is a drug mule who has to dump her stash when they are raided. The drug owner is not happy, especially when Micah cops the blame. Micah has to disappear and so goes to find his sister, who it turns out has joined a religious cult. Adventure ensues as Micah tries to extricate his sister Mates from the cult and avoid the drug dealer. An entertaining read.
Micah Reed is a reformed alcoholic/drug addict who used to work for a Mexican care until he turned evidence and entered witness protection. Unfortunately his choice of girlfriend is unreliable when he discovers she is a drug mule who has to dump her stash when they are raided. The drug owner is not happy, especially when Micah cops the blame. Micah has to disappear and so goes to find his sister, who it turns out has joined a religious cult. Adventure ensues as Micah tries to extricate his sister Mates from the cult and avoid the drug dealer. An entertaining read.
August 28, 2020
Micah Reed is trying to live a new life after testifying against his former employers in a drug cartel but when he learns his sister is in danger from a dangerous cult he has to help her. Micah is not your everyday hero, he’s flawed often making impulsive choices that lead him further into trouble. His fallibility is what I like most about the character. It can also leave you screaming at the book, ‘Why did you do that Micah?!’ Jim Heskett delivers a taught, fast paced thriller with interesting characters throughout mixed with a good deal of tension. Great read.
March 18, 2019
Thriller?
Ok I will admit the climax of the story was good but in general this story felt kind of flat. The characters were interesting but I don't believe any of them were given a full shining moment either as a hero or a villain. Maybe if the house was used more as a jail back drop it might have worked better. It was just too many storylines not enough time to really invest in any one story.
Ok I will admit the climax of the story was good but in general this story felt kind of flat. The characters were interesting but I don't believe any of them were given a full shining moment either as a hero or a villain. Maybe if the house was used more as a jail back drop it might have worked better. It was just too many storylines not enough time to really invest in any one story.
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December 19, 2019I guess the one thing that really stood out for me was the fact that there's truth to this story. Meaning this is a real place, and besides the fiction, there are read Frozen Dead Guy events. That really cemented it for me.
I guess the one thing that really stood out for me was the fact that there's truth to this story. Meaning this is a real place, and besides the fiction, there are read Frozen Dead Guy events. That really cemented it for me.
I guess the one thing that really stood out for me was the fact that there's truth to this story. Meaning this is a real place, and besides the fiction, there are read Frozen Dead Guy events. That really cemented it for me.
March 29, 2020
Breathtaking Action
Micah Reed has been in the Wiitness Protection Program because He was the star witness against an especially heinous Drug Cartel. He leaves the program to find his sister Magda. He knew her address in the mountains of Co!orado and wanted to find her. When he did, he realized she had gotten into a wild and dangerous cult and was a staunch believer. You Will be mesmerized at the breath taking action that occurs as he tries to get her out! A great read!!!!
Micah Reed has been in the Wiitness Protection Program because He was the star witness against an especially heinous Drug Cartel. He leaves the program to find his sister Magda. He knew her address in the mountains of Co!orado and wanted to find her. When he did, he realized she had gotten into a wild and dangerous cult and was a staunch believer. You Will be mesmerized at the breath taking action that occurs as he tries to get her out! A great read!!!!
August 1, 2020
This is the first book in a series about Micah Reed who has been relocated by Witness Protection. He was not a poster boy in his early life but he seems to have tamed his inner anger (for the most part). Micah moved to an area where he knows his sister is living. What he didn't know is just how deep she is in a questionable cult. I received a complementary copy of the book. This is my honest opinion of the story.
August 3, 2020
A great read that will keep you turning pages well into the late night hours. Micah is a character we all can relate to. His down to earth, simple ways will have you rooting and cheering for him as he makes his way through this story.
This is book one in the series but it definitely won't be the only one I read. I look forward to seeing what Micah gets into next.
I received an advanced reader copy but the opinions and review are my own honest comments.
This is book one in the series but it definitely won't be the only one I read. I look forward to seeing what Micah gets into next.
I received an advanced reader copy but the opinions and review are my own honest comments.
January 24, 2019
Yet another great action thriller about Micah Reed from Jim Heskett. I love the character building in this story, especially Micah. Several of the others are also so well-developed that I could envision them as I read. If you haven't met Micah go get one of his books. For those who wish to avoid-Please note-violence, profanity and quite a bit of blood in this tale.
November 25, 2019
Great Book, Heart Read
Some parts of this book were a bit droll but the suspense and action more than compensate. As the storyline seemed a little strange it did quickly come into focus after some time and flowed well from there on. I enjoyed the intrigue as more of the story fell into place, the twists and turns welcomed yet a surprise when they popped.
Some parts of this book were a bit droll but the suspense and action more than compensate. As the storyline seemed a little strange it did quickly come into focus after some time and flowed well from there on. I enjoyed the intrigue as more of the story fell into place, the twists and turns welcomed yet a surprise when they popped.
March 7, 2022
An ex-convict goes to a small town in Colorado to rescue his younger sister from a religious cult. The story of his harrowing attempt is the focus of this thriller. This is a good book with lots of action and a psychological glimpse into the characters who are attracted to this kind of movement. I think this is a book worth reading.
January 10, 2018
Just finished JimHeskett's 'Nailgun Messiah'. This seems to be different from the rest of his work. Although I found it quite good it was a bit slow. It was good to read a story about an average Joe being a hero. On to part 2 as now I have to find out what else Micha is up to.
Cheers
Lynn
Cheers
Lynn
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