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Jason King #1
Isolated
INTRODUCING JASON KING...
On a cold night in Australia, two construction workers driving along a deserted mountain road are gunned down inside their vehicle. The killings are fast. Efficient.
An assassination, carried out with expert precision. The only witness to the crime is a man resting by the side of the road. Recently retired, he'd flown halfway across the world to escape his demons.
Ex-U.S. black ops operative Jason King.
Quickly spotted, King is targeted by those in the shadows of a small country town, ruthless killers determined to tie up loose ends. They have no knowledge of the violent past they are about to revive...
ISOLATED is the first book in the Jason King series. $0.99 for a limited time only. Book 2, IMPRISONED, coming September 2016.
On a cold night in Australia, two construction workers driving along a deserted mountain road are gunned down inside their vehicle. The killings are fast. Efficient.
An assassination, carried out with expert precision. The only witness to the crime is a man resting by the side of the road. Recently retired, he'd flown halfway across the world to escape his demons.
Ex-U.S. black ops operative Jason King.
Quickly spotted, King is targeted by those in the shadows of a small country town, ruthless killers determined to tie up loose ends. They have no knowledge of the violent past they are about to revive...
ISOLATED is the first book in the Jason King series. $0.99 for a limited time only. Book 2, IMPRISONED, coming September 2016.
391 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 14, 2016
1139 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
Matt Rogers
61 books196 followersMillion-copy bestseller Matt Rogers is a prolific thriller author intent on blurring the lines between hard-hitting action and mind-bending philosophy. An avid runner and mountain trekker, he leans on real world experience to craft edge-of-your-seat thrill rides with staggering plot twists. His breakout novel, BE SOMEBODY, was lauded by IndieReader industry professionals, who praised the "impeccable writing" and "air-tight plot construction." Dive into the Dante Jacoby Series to see what all the fuss is about.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
August 5, 2018
Alright, there was a minute of cheesiness and a moment where I thought Jason told people too much about himself but overall I thought it was a great story. And I can’t even begin to tell you how many bad guys Jason killed, all while trying to figure out what was happening in this small town, only to find out it had to do with weaponizing anthrax.
This was filled with excitement, and a little bit of romance, and the F-bomb was used 61 times. And there were a couple of real surprises along the way.
This was a free read and free listen and as much as I enjoyed it I just can’t pay $7.49 each for the other 5 books in this series, not when there are other series' with 5 or 6 books that are free reads and free listens. When you live on a limited income you have to be careful how you spend your money, right? Fortunately, I got this one free on audible August 3rd and it’s now $7.49 for the audible. So, I guess my timing was good, huh? I love good timing!
As to the narration: Roger Wayne did a great job. His voices were spot on and his emotions when he read were awesome.
February 6, 2017
This is one to miss
I don't normally write reviews but felt that this time I had to. I would certainly not recommend this book, the plot was terrible and full of holes. Although I finished reading it, as I always do, I wish I had stopped when I felt that the story was very poor (this by the way was quite early on.
I don't normally write reviews but felt that this time I had to. I would certainly not recommend this book, the plot was terrible and full of holes. Although I finished reading it, as I always do, I wish I had stopped when I felt that the story was very poor (this by the way was quite early on.
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July 21, 2020
Review to come
February 26, 2017
I struggled with the rating for this one.
On one hand, the book delivered everything I want from a book in this genre. Action, compelling story line, dynamic characters, and a lead character you want to root for.
On the other hand, there were some things that I felt fell short. It has some of the issues you see in the first book from a new writer.
Jason King is an ex-special forces, black ops soldier. As part of an ultra-secret group, hidden away from all but the highest levels of government, he's seen and done things the world will never know about.
The author creates a compelling character in Jason but he commits a few mistakes in the first book.
No man is on his level until they are. Jason is always aware and notices things a normal person wouldn't until he doesn't. Jason is unmatched in skill and determination until he is.
It's a classic mistake where you have a character given almost god-like qualities only to see them undermined time and time again as the story unfolds.
The other mistake, from a reader's perspective, is the unrealistic battles and characters effects. We have a hero that can disable in a single brutal strike and yet is able to take unbelievable damage multiple times in a short period of time.
We don't get any idea of who, what, why about the enemy until three-quarters of the way through the book, thankfully there was enough action to keep my attention but a lot of people may not hang in.
The author shows some inexperience in a big plot hole, where the reader is taking to the plot conclusion only to have the arc start all over again after a character takes an unrealistic action to prolong the storyline.
All in all the book did keep my attention and I continued reading because I wanted to know what would happen and I'm intrigued enough to get the next book to see how the character grows.
The parallels of Jason King to Jack Reacher are hard to miss but I love that series and the more the merrier however both the author and the character have a long way to go to fill those shoes.
On one hand, the book delivered everything I want from a book in this genre. Action, compelling story line, dynamic characters, and a lead character you want to root for.
On the other hand, there were some things that I felt fell short. It has some of the issues you see in the first book from a new writer.
Jason King is an ex-special forces, black ops soldier. As part of an ultra-secret group, hidden away from all but the highest levels of government, he's seen and done things the world will never know about.
The author creates a compelling character in Jason but he commits a few mistakes in the first book.
No man is on his level until they are. Jason is always aware and notices things a normal person wouldn't until he doesn't. Jason is unmatched in skill and determination until he is.
It's a classic mistake where you have a character given almost god-like qualities only to see them undermined time and time again as the story unfolds.
The other mistake, from a reader's perspective, is the unrealistic battles and characters effects. We have a hero that can disable in a single brutal strike and yet is able to take unbelievable damage multiple times in a short period of time.
We don't get any idea of who, what, why about the enemy until three-quarters of the way through the book, thankfully there was enough action to keep my attention but a lot of people may not hang in.
The author shows some inexperience in a big plot hole, where the reader is taking to the plot conclusion only to have the arc start all over again after a character takes an unrealistic action to prolong the storyline.
All in all the book did keep my attention and I continued reading because I wanted to know what would happen and I'm intrigued enough to get the next book to see how the character grows.
The parallels of Jason King to Jack Reacher are hard to miss but I love that series and the more the merrier however both the author and the character have a long way to go to fill those shoes.
September 2, 2016
Isolated: A Jason King Thriller by Matt Rogers is the first of this new series. Matt Rogers has done a great job of introducing the world to Jason King, a U.S. Black Ops guy who is no stranger to danger. On a cool night in Australia, Jason encounters a couple of assassins and basically takes them out in quick fashion and deposits their bodies in an abandoned factory. This book has a super fast pace right from the start with Jason jumping in to save a young girl from a group of thugs to helping a man being consistently harassed by the same gang of brazen thugs. I love the sense of foreboding the author has created by having Jason King walk everywhere, Jason literally just seems to have the clothes on his back, yet, he is a man on a mission and seems more than willing and capable of fulfilling that mission. Well written, and will keep you on the edge of your seat. Highly recommend and looking forward to the next installment.
November 27, 2016
A wild and crazy ride in the boonies of Australia for a "retired" black ops agent. The story is exciting and full of action. Jason King is a Jack Reacher type of character, but with critical differences. The excitement begins when Jason relaxes next to a tree by the roadside and becomes the unwitting witness to a pair of murders. As he follows clues to what is happening, he becomes more and more convinced that the issue surrounds him in some way. The suspense builds throughout the book. The are many surprises right up to the end. The characters are presented in both broad brush and loving detail. The action is unrelenting. The book is easy to read but hard to forget.
October 27, 2016
Silly, this book is for the really young minded as it is just plain comic book hero.
Just plain silly the author has a real hard time making the characters believable. This is just a comic book without pictures. I won't be buying any more of this drivel. Don't waste your money or time on this author's stories !
Just plain silly the author has a real hard time making the characters believable. This is just a comic book without pictures. I won't be buying any more of this drivel. Don't waste your money or time on this author's stories !
October 27, 2016
.
This book started out good but quickly became unrealistic. It tries to duplicate Lee Child's " Reacher" character and situation and fails.
This book started out good but quickly became unrealistic. It tries to duplicate Lee Child's " Reacher" character and situation and fails.
June 25, 2021
3 1/2 Australian Jack Reacher
August 31, 2017
I just want to see go
I love the new version and now it crashes to the point where of view of my favorite part of the best day of the year
I love the new version and now it crashes to the point where of view of my favorite part of the best day of the year
October 20, 2016
What a pleasant surprise - Isolated and the protagonist, Jason King - a force to be reckoned with. If you enjoy Jack Reacher, Jack Noble, Michael Bennett, John Cory and Jesse McDermitt novels, then don't miss this series. They are all shrewd, well-trained, and get the job done.
Jason King has recently retired and relocated to Australia...far from his past...far from people who know him...looking to relax and kick back...enjoying life! However, he never gets a chance. From the very first page when he observes a "hit" on two construction workers from a nearby worksite until the very end of the book...neither reader or Jason King will have a moment to relax! Matt Rogers makes sure of that!
As a former Black Ops operator, Jason King is considered to be the best in the trade. Now that he is no longer in the agency, a caper unfolds in a place that he never expected. When he sees somebody wronged, Jason will step in to help and make things right again. The author continues to make readers guess on the outcome, continuing to change things up until the final scenes. My only regret is that the postal carrier isn't compensated for his vehicle.
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the series and feel like the author could be ranked with those mentioned in the opening sentence. I am going to download the second book when I finish writing this. Hail a new hero! Great job Mr. Rogers!
John Podlaski, author
"Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel" and "When Can I Stop Running?"
Jason King has recently retired and relocated to Australia...far from his past...far from people who know him...looking to relax and kick back...enjoying life! However, he never gets a chance. From the very first page when he observes a "hit" on two construction workers from a nearby worksite until the very end of the book...neither reader or Jason King will have a moment to relax! Matt Rogers makes sure of that!
As a former Black Ops operator, Jason King is considered to be the best in the trade. Now that he is no longer in the agency, a caper unfolds in a place that he never expected. When he sees somebody wronged, Jason will step in to help and make things right again. The author continues to make readers guess on the outcome, continuing to change things up until the final scenes. My only regret is that the postal carrier isn't compensated for his vehicle.
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the series and feel like the author could be ranked with those mentioned in the opening sentence. I am going to download the second book when I finish writing this. Hail a new hero! Great job Mr. Rogers!
John Podlaski, author
"Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel" and "When Can I Stop Running?"
November 13, 2016
What an amazing thriller this is! This story starts out with Jason King seeing two men shot in their car. The assassins spot him and attempt to kill him. He kills them instead. Being an ex black ops operative in the U.S. he can handle just about any situation quickly and quietly. As he gets to know the people in the small town of Jameson, Australia he realizes the assassinations he saw are just a small part of what's going on in this little town. Is it a coincidence that so many people are dying in the town that he's passing through or is it because of him?
This is a fast moving story full of action. It's the kind of book that keeps you thinking about what is going on and why. Jason King had been extremely well trained when he was in the military so he never has a problem dispensing of any bad guy quickly. I did think it was a bit extreme that Jason took out 10 men but it was quite believable in this story. Even with all the killing Jason did, I liked him a lot because he always jumped in when he saw something wrong then would find out why this happened and who ordered it in the first place.
I'm glad I was offered a copy of this book from the author because I like Jason King and will definitely be reading the rest of this series. Please note that I am reviewing this book on my own as I do with everything I read. Not because I was asked to.
This is a fast moving story full of action. It's the kind of book that keeps you thinking about what is going on and why. Jason King had been extremely well trained when he was in the military so he never has a problem dispensing of any bad guy quickly. I did think it was a bit extreme that Jason took out 10 men but it was quite believable in this story. Even with all the killing Jason did, I liked him a lot because he always jumped in when he saw something wrong then would find out why this happened and who ordered it in the first place.
I'm glad I was offered a copy of this book from the author because I like Jason King and will definitely be reading the rest of this series. Please note that I am reviewing this book on my own as I do with everything I read. Not because I was asked to.
July 16, 2018
The ending is to unbelievable
A lot of action but it was an awful ending with to many unrealistic events. Shot in the foot, King sprinted, jumped into a moving plane, catapulted himself inside, jumped from a plan (in a parachute) and walked back to town. I stopped reading after that.
A lot of action but it was an awful ending with to many unrealistic events. Shot in the foot, King sprinted, jumped into a moving plane, catapulted himself inside, jumped from a plan (in a parachute) and walked back to town. I stopped reading after that.
January 9, 2017
This is a poorly written book. Many passages contain awkward language and this took me out of the story continually. I am Australian and I could find nothing to support the proposition that this adventure occurred in Australia. The word "bush" does not occur in the book at all. There are improbable things in the landscape. An "abandoned metal work factory towered over the rest of the forest" in an alpine region of country Victoria. There is also a "sprawling industrial complex home to a concrete plant" close by, both near a small country town. There is no logical reason for these things to exist in this sort of area.
The romance is unbelievable, the romantic interest is unlikeable. And I do get sick of heroes who fail to finish off the bad guy merely in order to extend the plot.
Needless to say, I won't be reading any more of these.
The romance is unbelievable, the romantic interest is unlikeable. And I do get sick of heroes who fail to finish off the bad guy merely in order to extend the plot.
Needless to say, I won't be reading any more of these.
April 23, 2019
Jason King has ended up in rural Australia and trouble has followed him there. I really like the lone wolf nature of these books. It's like Jack Reacher on steroids. Lee Child books have more focus on the mystery and less on action, but Matt Rogers does action as well as he does mystery.
In this book, why are some people in an unknown Australian town trying to kill King? The book starts off with a bang and doesn't stop. The action only escalates till the end of the books. I am already reading the next book in the series Imprisoned.
This author and his books have been a real discovery!
In this book, why are some people in an unknown Australian town trying to kill King? The book starts off with a bang and doesn't stop. The action only escalates till the end of the books. I am already reading the next book in the series Imprisoned.
This author and his books have been a real discovery!
February 3, 2018
This isn’t a review of a single book, but of the six books that make up The Jason King series. Don’t worry, no spoilers.
I only write reviews for books that have made an impact on me in some way. An enjoyable book where nothing stood out doesn’t usually lead to a review. This was the case with some of these books as individual novels. They’re enjoyable 3-4 star reads, but none screamed at me to share my thoughts. When taken as whole though, it’s a different story.
Together, these books tell the story of Jason King. He’s an American Black Ops agent, more highly trained than elite special forces. A faster than normal reaction time, iron will and extensive training makes him a one-man army. But he’s been in the life too long and wants to get out.
On the surface, that story sounds familiar. These books aren’t going to offer you anything new in this genre. However, they do offer a story that’s well told with some important differences from what’s normally in this kind of book.
Usually, these books are told in the all too familiar procedural format:
Introduce protagonist and the conflict they’ll get mixed up in ----> Protagonist gets deeply involved and meets many supporting characters, making a big impact in their lives ----> The main character resolves the conflict ----> The story finds a way to return to the status quo
It is the last step in that formula that I have always taken issue with. Returning to the status quo is much the same as finishing a story with, “He woke up to find it had just been a dream.” It robs the story of impact, making it nothing more than a throwaway adventure. String enough of these together and I quickly lose interest in a series because nothing is ever changing/evolving. Worse, asking yourself how a story can return to the status quo will usually reveal the ending. Therefore, most procedurals are predictable.
This is what made the Jason King series stand out in my eyes. It doesn’t follow this formula; or at least not every step. It does have a different conflict in each novel and he is always meeting new supporting characters. However, not every book ends with a return to the status quo. Instead, each book has Jason finish in a different place than when he started and it builds up to tell a larger and much more interesting story.
It was this larger story that hooked me. As I mentioned earlier, without it these stories didn’t stand out as anything above a good procedural. However, with this overarching story we got increasing stakes in each novel, higher tension, and a protagonist I genuinely cared about. It made each decision in the novels have a new meaning because it genuinely mattered what choice was made.
In short, it made these books stand out above the norm in a very good way.
Finally, this format has another thing going for it; an ending. When you’re telling an overarching story, then your series will have a beginning, a middle and an end. It sounds simple, but I think it’s important to know that the series your reading will actually take you to an eventual conclusion. Most procedurals have the beginning, but then we get one long middle that I start to feel will eventually lead nowhere.
Overall, this simple change of making each story in a series matter to the larger story being told raised this series to another level. They have the usual fast-paced action procedural books are known for, but it has the benefit of a larger story to give each book more meaning. Though each book on their own never exceeded 4-stars in my mind, the series as a whole gets a 4.5.
I can happily recommend reading it.
I only write reviews for books that have made an impact on me in some way. An enjoyable book where nothing stood out doesn’t usually lead to a review. This was the case with some of these books as individual novels. They’re enjoyable 3-4 star reads, but none screamed at me to share my thoughts. When taken as whole though, it’s a different story.
Together, these books tell the story of Jason King. He’s an American Black Ops agent, more highly trained than elite special forces. A faster than normal reaction time, iron will and extensive training makes him a one-man army. But he’s been in the life too long and wants to get out.
On the surface, that story sounds familiar. These books aren’t going to offer you anything new in this genre. However, they do offer a story that’s well told with some important differences from what’s normally in this kind of book.
Usually, these books are told in the all too familiar procedural format:
Introduce protagonist and the conflict they’ll get mixed up in ----> Protagonist gets deeply involved and meets many supporting characters, making a big impact in their lives ----> The main character resolves the conflict ----> The story finds a way to return to the status quo
It is the last step in that formula that I have always taken issue with. Returning to the status quo is much the same as finishing a story with, “He woke up to find it had just been a dream.” It robs the story of impact, making it nothing more than a throwaway adventure. String enough of these together and I quickly lose interest in a series because nothing is ever changing/evolving. Worse, asking yourself how a story can return to the status quo will usually reveal the ending. Therefore, most procedurals are predictable.
This is what made the Jason King series stand out in my eyes. It doesn’t follow this formula; or at least not every step. It does have a different conflict in each novel and he is always meeting new supporting characters. However, not every book ends with a return to the status quo. Instead, each book has Jason finish in a different place than when he started and it builds up to tell a larger and much more interesting story.
It was this larger story that hooked me. As I mentioned earlier, without it these stories didn’t stand out as anything above a good procedural. However, with this overarching story we got increasing stakes in each novel, higher tension, and a protagonist I genuinely cared about. It made each decision in the novels have a new meaning because it genuinely mattered what choice was made.
In short, it made these books stand out above the norm in a very good way.
Finally, this format has another thing going for it; an ending. When you’re telling an overarching story, then your series will have a beginning, a middle and an end. It sounds simple, but I think it’s important to know that the series your reading will actually take you to an eventual conclusion. Most procedurals have the beginning, but then we get one long middle that I start to feel will eventually lead nowhere.
Overall, this simple change of making each story in a series matter to the larger story being told raised this series to another level. They have the usual fast-paced action procedural books are known for, but it has the benefit of a larger story to give each book more meaning. Though each book on their own never exceeded 4-stars in my mind, the series as a whole gets a 4.5.
I can happily recommend reading it.
October 27, 2017
Isolated Jason King Series bk 1 by Matt Rogers Review
INTRODUCING JASON KING...
On a cold night in Australia, two construction workers driving along a deserted mountain road are gunned down inside their vehicle. The killings are fast. Efficient. An assassination carried out with expert precision. The only witness to the crime is a man resting by the side of the road. Recently retired, he'd flown halfway across the world to escape his demons. Ex-U.S. black ops operative Jason King. Quickly spotted, King is targeted by those in the shadows of a small country town, ruthless killers determined to tie up loose ends. They have no knowledge of the violent past they are about to revive...
What did I like? The first thing I liked about this series is the vulnerability of the main character, he was accessible and real. Feeling real pain from the world that he lived in and he could feel for those around him. Most would just keep on going but for Jason that was impossible. I have always loved kick-ass men and Jason sure fits that role but with a sensitive side to him.
What will you like? Shoot, first and foremost the action and the fact that Jason just can’t seem to stay away from trouble even when he sure didn’t need anymore. So, action and lots of it. Emotions are falling off the pages whether it is from Jason or those around him. Bad guys just pop up every time Jason turns around and keep piling up the bodies around him. Romance from the most unusual place and time. Good guys that come to the aid of the really great guys and sucky bad guys and some that you would never in all this world expect. What more could you ask for? Kick butt action, sex and romance all with an awesome read that will keep you glued to the pages! I received this from the author as an ARC copy for an honest review with no other compensation.
INTRODUCING JASON KING...
On a cold night in Australia, two construction workers driving along a deserted mountain road are gunned down inside their vehicle. The killings are fast. Efficient. An assassination carried out with expert precision. The only witness to the crime is a man resting by the side of the road. Recently retired, he'd flown halfway across the world to escape his demons. Ex-U.S. black ops operative Jason King. Quickly spotted, King is targeted by those in the shadows of a small country town, ruthless killers determined to tie up loose ends. They have no knowledge of the violent past they are about to revive...
What did I like? The first thing I liked about this series is the vulnerability of the main character, he was accessible and real. Feeling real pain from the world that he lived in and he could feel for those around him. Most would just keep on going but for Jason that was impossible. I have always loved kick-ass men and Jason sure fits that role but with a sensitive side to him.
What will you like? Shoot, first and foremost the action and the fact that Jason just can’t seem to stay away from trouble even when he sure didn’t need anymore. So, action and lots of it. Emotions are falling off the pages whether it is from Jason or those around him. Bad guys just pop up every time Jason turns around and keep piling up the bodies around him. Romance from the most unusual place and time. Good guys that come to the aid of the really great guys and sucky bad guys and some that you would never in all this world expect. What more could you ask for? Kick butt action, sex and romance all with an awesome read that will keep you glued to the pages! I received this from the author as an ARC copy for an honest review with no other compensation.
January 15, 2017
I am very excited to having found a new military-action-thriller writer. This is the first book for me of this genre I have read from this Australian author Matt Rogers. And I just "gifted" a copy of ISOLATED to my adult daughter, who did her "semester abroad" in Canbera.. But the protagonist Jason King is an American Special Forces veteran who goes to Australia to "get away from it all", and yet trouble follows him "down under." I will freely admit that I enjoy "adventure" fiction and pure escapism. I do not approach my pleasure reading as looking for Hemingway. For me, this is an excellent first book for this new author. The good guy is really good, though conflicted. But easy and ready to deal with the "bad guys" who are truly evil. His actions are clearly consistent with the Special Forces motto - "de opresso liber" or LIBERATE THE OPPRESSED. The story moves very quickly, and there are several twists and turns in the plot. The hero Jason King is closest to Lee Child's Jack Reacher - just like the TIMEX commercial of the 1960's, "It's takes a beating and keeps on ticking." Also some qualities of Jason Bourne character. Because Jason King does take more than his fair share of beatings and torture, and is able to escape to fight again. There are many, many action-packed fist-fights and shoot-outs that are very exciting and graphic in detail. In contrast to some critics, I think that this is one of the best FIRST books of a new author I have read in a LONG time. I look forward to the next Jason King novel.
May 24, 2020
Wow!
I’ve read some quite negative reviews about this novel and the Jason King series. Thus far I’ve read the short story “Hard Impact” and this first full length King outing. Frankly anyone giving this poor reviews ought to remember that the bloke writing it did so at the tender age of 20 which is remarkable. Yes, there are some plot holes and a few scratch your head moments but no more so than I’ve read from other accomplished authors.
I really enjoyed this book and have started on the second novel as a result. King is a walking weapon, possesses lethal speed, efficiency and cunning.
Jason is in the Australian outback forgetting his past when he witnesses two guys being assassinated, when he is spotted they then turn their guns on him - mistake. What follows is a fast, thrilling ride and you’re routing for King the whole time.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy in the book was (what I feel) an unnecessary romance, Kate and King didn’t need to get it on especially when he just ups and leaves at the end but this is a minor gripe.
If you like Dawson’s John Milton or Sinclair’s Carl Logan/James Ryker then you’ll enjoy this.
Kudos to Matt Rogers for writing such a great novel, I’m definitely now a fan.
I’ve read some quite negative reviews about this novel and the Jason King series. Thus far I’ve read the short story “Hard Impact” and this first full length King outing. Frankly anyone giving this poor reviews ought to remember that the bloke writing it did so at the tender age of 20 which is remarkable. Yes, there are some plot holes and a few scratch your head moments but no more so than I’ve read from other accomplished authors.
I really enjoyed this book and have started on the second novel as a result. King is a walking weapon, possesses lethal speed, efficiency and cunning.
Jason is in the Australian outback forgetting his past when he witnesses two guys being assassinated, when he is spotted they then turn their guns on him - mistake. What follows is a fast, thrilling ride and you’re routing for King the whole time.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy in the book was (what I feel) an unnecessary romance, Kate and King didn’t need to get it on especially when he just ups and leaves at the end but this is a minor gripe.
If you like Dawson’s John Milton or Sinclair’s Carl Logan/James Ryker then you’ll enjoy this.
Kudos to Matt Rogers for writing such a great novel, I’m definitely now a fan.
September 20, 2021
The first book in the Jason King series. I personally have read the entire series twice already but still enjoy the character. Jason King is essentially John Wick but in the military doing off the book black ops, recently retired. He was selected due to his off the charts reactions and turned into a killing machine. Having had enough with that lifestyle he quit and roamed the Australian countryside in a quaint town when he witnesses the deaths of two ordinary construction workers by hitmen. These hitmen then make the unfortunate decision to silence him. What follows is a gripping story of action, enigma and conspiracy (with some clues scattered around for the reader to guess).
I did have a few issues though. There were definitely some plot holes and sometimes the plot was too slow but the action kept me going and the fact that I could root for Jason. The epilogue was abrupt, but in line with King's character.
All in all I'm a sucker for these types of books, and if you're into this too, you'll probably have an excellent time reading it. If you haven't read such books, this is worth giving a short to get a feel for the genre as it a staple. If you don't like action, you can probably skip it since you probably won't find anything else.
I did have a few issues though. There were definitely some plot holes and sometimes the plot was too slow but the action kept me going and the fact that I could root for Jason. The epilogue was abrupt, but in line with King's character.
All in all I'm a sucker for these types of books, and if you're into this too, you'll probably have an excellent time reading it. If you haven't read such books, this is worth giving a short to get a feel for the genre as it a staple. If you don't like action, you can probably skip it since you probably won't find anything else.
August 30, 2024
It Is Not the Delta Force
Here in the U.S., the soldiers in the Army's Delta Force refer to it as The Unit. Th,, ,ere is no "the" before Delta Force. The same goes for Special Forces. The book was okay, although it was a bit odd that it's written by an Aussie, but the protagonist is an American soldier. Which explains the oversight. Just as an aside, our Navy SEALs refer themselves to being in the Teams. Anyways, had the author used Australia's SAS, it would have been a better fit. Here, books written by Jack Carr (SEAL Team 6, Ret'd) and Brad Taylor (Delta Force, Ret'd) have both authenticity and plausibility without revealing anything that's TS/SCI. Despite their number of deployments to foreign countries in their back pockets, prior to starting on a new book, they do a tremendous amount of research. Location of where the story takes place, the culture there, weapons and transportation used, et. al. Its tense, suspenseful and high adventure. The attention to detail is phenomenal. It's all about the research. That's what gives the story plausibility.
A good book which I highly recommend. I'll be reading Book 2 next to see what kind of trouble King gets himself into.
Here in the U.S., the soldiers in the Army's Delta Force refer to it as The Unit. Th,, ,ere is no "the" before Delta Force. The same goes for Special Forces. The book was okay, although it was a bit odd that it's written by an Aussie, but the protagonist is an American soldier. Which explains the oversight. Just as an aside, our Navy SEALs refer themselves to being in the Teams. Anyways, had the author used Australia's SAS, it would have been a better fit. Here, books written by Jack Carr (SEAL Team 6, Ret'd) and Brad Taylor (Delta Force, Ret'd) have both authenticity and plausibility without revealing anything that's TS/SCI. Despite their number of deployments to foreign countries in their back pockets, prior to starting on a new book, they do a tremendous amount of research. Location of where the story takes place, the culture there, weapons and transportation used, et. al. Its tense, suspenseful and high adventure. The attention to detail is phenomenal. It's all about the research. That's what gives the story plausibility.
A good book which I highly recommend. I'll be reading Book 2 next to see what kind of trouble King gets himself into.
July 30, 2017
Enter Jason King
This guy is scarier than Jack Reacher but cut from the same cloth - leave him alone and everything is okay; mess with him in any way and you might live to regret it; offend his sensibilities and do evil to the Innocent? Hope you have a good burial plan 'cause you're gonna need it.
Jason tries to put his past behind him but it seems he cannot escape what he truly is - a man who lives for conflict and with a cold passion for killing and more so when he's very good at it and he's good because you don't survive the horrors he's seen without being damned good.
Despite his abilities, he's very much human and while he believes that he can go back to being a normal kind of guy, he also knows that the darkness within him can rise at any moment. This creates a conflict within him but when it's time to act, he never hesitates and does so to great effect.
I wonder what would happen if Jason and Jack ever hooked up to right a wrong?
This guy is scarier than Jack Reacher but cut from the same cloth - leave him alone and everything is okay; mess with him in any way and you might live to regret it; offend his sensibilities and do evil to the Innocent? Hope you have a good burial plan 'cause you're gonna need it.
Jason tries to put his past behind him but it seems he cannot escape what he truly is - a man who lives for conflict and with a cold passion for killing and more so when he's very good at it and he's good because you don't survive the horrors he's seen without being damned good.
Despite his abilities, he's very much human and while he believes that he can go back to being a normal kind of guy, he also knows that the darkness within him can rise at any moment. This creates a conflict within him but when it's time to act, he never hesitates and does so to great effect.
I wonder what would happen if Jason and Jack ever hooked up to right a wrong?
April 10, 2018
My thoughts: I give it 2 stars. Many passages contain awkward language and the quasi-relationship he formed with a side character was unlikely and also awkward.
I doubt Mr. Rogers has ever been to Australia. There are improbable things in the landscape. An "abandoned metal work factory towered over the rest of the forest" in an alpine region of country Victoria. There is also a "sprawling industrial complex home to a concrete plant" close by, both near a small country town. There is no logical reason for these things to exist in this sort of area.
The romance is unbelievable, the romantic interest is unlikeable. And I do get sick of heroes who fail to finish off the bad guy merely in order to extend the plot.
Needless to say, I won't be reading any more of these.
I doubt Mr. Rogers has ever been to Australia. There are improbable things in the landscape. An "abandoned metal work factory towered over the rest of the forest" in an alpine region of country Victoria. There is also a "sprawling industrial complex home to a concrete plant" close by, both near a small country town. There is no logical reason for these things to exist in this sort of area.
The romance is unbelievable, the romantic interest is unlikeable. And I do get sick of heroes who fail to finish off the bad guy merely in order to extend the plot.
Needless to say, I won't be reading any more of these.
October 27, 2021
Jason King and Jack Reacher must be related :). This could have been Reacher in place of King. Copycat or just taking advantage of a captive market and having supply meet demand? Let's hope for the latter. Anyway, we did not have long to wait for the introduction to calm, quiet Jason. Just a few pages into the book and he is dumping dead hitmen into a waste recycle bin. Dead cops and dead friends does not phase our Jason. Throw in some charity acts, such as putting down the heavy metal bikers and it all led to an opening book full of adventure. The love interest was all a bit pointless, especially as they parted ways without much of a tear at the end of the book. Anyway, time to read book #02.
November 20, 2017
Isolated
A good book with tons of action. Seems like something going on in almost every chapter. But, I did not fin anything particularly spectacular about Jason King. He's just another secret operative who retired and trying to find peace and somehow can't. Like a dozen other books I've read. Don't get me wrong, the book was well written, the characters were defined pretty well, and it was filled with action. But, Jason King just didn't "pop". Nothing really memorable about him. Ill keep this series in mind for the future, but I have a feeling there are a lot more better reads.
A good book with tons of action. Seems like something going on in almost every chapter. But, I did not fin anything particularly spectacular about Jason King. He's just another secret operative who retired and trying to find peace and somehow can't. Like a dozen other books I've read. Don't get me wrong, the book was well written, the characters were defined pretty well, and it was filled with action. But, Jason King just didn't "pop". Nothing really memorable about him. Ill keep this series in mind for the future, but I have a feeling there are a lot more better reads.
December 30, 2020
Really good read
This is the first book by Matt Rogers that I have read… And I can confidently say that I’ve come across another action packed series that will have my undivided attention for the next month at least… The author is fantastic at developing a plot, his character development is great too. My only worry is that I’m doing myself a disservice by starting with the Jason King series. From this book alone it’s easy to determine that the protagonist, Jason King, has an incredible history with some of the blackest, high speed military units out there. Can’t wait to read more about his Hero’s Journey. If you enjoyed Jack Reacher, or Pike Logan, you’ll definitely enjoy this!
This is the first book by Matt Rogers that I have read… And I can confidently say that I’ve come across another action packed series that will have my undivided attention for the next month at least… The author is fantastic at developing a plot, his character development is great too. My only worry is that I’m doing myself a disservice by starting with the Jason King series. From this book alone it’s easy to determine that the protagonist, Jason King, has an incredible history with some of the blackest, high speed military units out there. Can’t wait to read more about his Hero’s Journey. If you enjoyed Jack Reacher, or Pike Logan, you’ll definitely enjoy this!
October 21, 2021
Jason King, an ex black commando, is a loner and a drifter and a killing machine, pretty much like all other protagonists of this genre. He's passing by a small sleepy town of Australia, stumbling upon a double murder. He kills the assassins though, gets curious and tries to find what and who is behind all this. Post the murder and a gritty action scene initially, the story gets real slow for a few chapters, but then when the conspiracy slowly unfolds, it becomes a pulse pounding action thriller. It has everything - gunfight, raw fist fight, airplane fight, high altitude jumping - just what the action thriller junkies want. I'll try Will Slater series too.
March 13, 2024
3.65*
Mostly very good, but I didn't understand our mc's immediate violent tendencies at first. I realise when I looked up the author that there's a story before this that may explain the earlier situation which Jason keeps referring to as why he left the military.
I have also noted that there appears to be one-two other series of books where Jason is a mc in, that would perhaps help to understand his past better, which would have made me more in tune with his situation.
The action in this certainly made listening to the audio, a fast-paced adventure. I think audio is the way to go for this series for me.
Mostly very good, but I didn't understand our mc's immediate violent tendencies at first. I realise when I looked up the author that there's a story before this that may explain the earlier situation which Jason keeps referring to as why he left the military.
I have also noted that there appears to be one-two other series of books where Jason is a mc in, that would perhaps help to understand his past better, which would have made me more in tune with his situation.
The action in this certainly made listening to the audio, a fast-paced adventure. I think audio is the way to go for this series for me.
July 12, 2017
Wowsers YES Go King please be safe
It took me a couple chapters to bond with King. Now I'm hopelessly addicted to this man. You want to be his mother, lover, sister and friend. He is an amazing man. He never thinks of himself. He is set on making the world a better place. He keeps trying to relax and decompress only to find out that it's not his time yet. I am thrilled that I'm reading this series. I rarely read stand alone books. I'm hooked on series. On to book two !!!
It took me a couple chapters to bond with King. Now I'm hopelessly addicted to this man. You want to be his mother, lover, sister and friend. He is an amazing man. He never thinks of himself. He is set on making the world a better place. He keeps trying to relax and decompress only to find out that it's not his time yet. I am thrilled that I'm reading this series. I rarely read stand alone books. I'm hooked on series. On to book two !!!
September 9, 2019
KING...IS IN THE AIR
Like part of the premise of this story. KING is a "retired" operator in search of "inner peace". What he discover is a real mess. The story start a little slow and the development needs work.
Things like use a knife and immediately remove the knife and stab 3 more times? Really? When a knife is push into a body created a "suction cup" that unless you had an incredible strength the "suction" prevents it's removal.
The truth...a little more info will be needed to make a decision on this character
Like part of the premise of this story. KING is a "retired" operator in search of "inner peace". What he discover is a real mess. The story start a little slow and the development needs work.
Things like use a knife and immediately remove the knife and stab 3 more times? Really? When a knife is push into a body created a "suction cup" that unless you had an incredible strength the "suction" prevents it's removal.
The truth...a little more info will be needed to make a decision on this character
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