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The Hunters: Origins #1
Before the Storm
The first story in THE ORIGINS focuses on the team leader of the Hunters. After his unexpected discharge from the U.S. Army, Jack Cobb finds it difficult to adjust to civilian life. He flies to Florida to meet with his contacts at MacDill AFB, but he is denied entry because of the scandal that ended his military career.
Thankfully two of Cobb’s closest friends (Jonathon Payne and David Jones) come to his rescue. Braving an approaching thunderstorm and some of the worst beach music they’ve ever heard, their tales of adventure do more than cheer him up. They open Cobb’s eyes to an opportunity that will change his life forever.
This is not a full-length book. It is a short novella that takes place prior to the action of THE HUNTERS. The goal of ORIGINS is to delve into the backstory of the major characters in the Hunters series while providing clues and insight into future books and THE HUNTERS movie.
Thankfully two of Cobb’s closest friends (Jonathon Payne and David Jones) come to his rescue. Braving an approaching thunderstorm and some of the worst beach music they’ve ever heard, their tales of adventure do more than cheer him up. They open Cobb’s eyes to an opportunity that will change his life forever.
This is not a full-length book. It is a short novella that takes place prior to the action of THE HUNTERS. The goal of ORIGINS is to delve into the backstory of the major characters in the Hunters series while providing clues and insight into future books and THE HUNTERS movie.
- GenresThriller
71 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2016
71 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
About the author
Chris Kuzneski
25 books1,207 followersChris Kuzneski is the #1 international bestselling & New York Times bestselling author of twelve novels and one novella. His thrillers have been translated into more than twenty languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. One of his books (THE HUNTERS) is currently being made into a major motion picture, and another (THE PRISONER’S GOLD) won an ITW Thriller Award for Book of the Year.
Armed with witty prose, a unique narrative voice, and a penchant for blackmail, Kuzneski has garnered praise from many of the top authors in the world: James Patterson, Nelson DeMille, Lee Child, Vince Flynn, James Rollins, Tess Gerritsen, Douglas Preston, Lisa Gardner, Steve Berry, Scott Mariani, Allison Brennan, W.E.B. Griffin, Graham Brown, Boyd Morrison, John Gilstrap, Raymond Khoury, David Morrell, Andrew Gross, Joseph Finder, Jeremy Robinson, and his writing idol, Clive Cussler.
Simply put, his books are awesome.
A former football player at the University of Pittsburgh, Kuzneski worked as a journalist until he realized it was easier to make stuff up in the comfort of his own home. He has been writing fiction and sleeping in ever since. The only thing that has slowed him down is his obvious need for a pen name, since most people don't know how to spell or pronounce 'Kuzneski'. [Hint: Seven of the letters are silent.]
Armed with witty prose, a unique narrative voice, and a penchant for blackmail, Kuzneski has garnered praise from many of the top authors in the world: James Patterson, Nelson DeMille, Lee Child, Vince Flynn, James Rollins, Tess Gerritsen, Douglas Preston, Lisa Gardner, Steve Berry, Scott Mariani, Allison Brennan, W.E.B. Griffin, Graham Brown, Boyd Morrison, John Gilstrap, Raymond Khoury, David Morrell, Andrew Gross, Joseph Finder, Jeremy Robinson, and his writing idol, Clive Cussler.
Simply put, his books are awesome.
A former football player at the University of Pittsburgh, Kuzneski worked as a journalist until he realized it was easier to make stuff up in the comfort of his own home. He has been writing fiction and sleeping in ever since. The only thing that has slowed him down is his obvious need for a pen name, since most people don't know how to spell or pronounce 'Kuzneski'. [Hint: Seven of the letters are silent.]
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 20, 2016
A strong 3.75 stars
Choosing to finally reveal more about the Hunters before they became a team, Chris Kuzneski has decided to pen a number of novellas to offer their essential backstories. First on the list is the purported leader, Jack Cobb. As the story opens, Cobb is in Florida, fresh off a dishonourable discharge from the U.S. Army. Unsure what to do next, he receives a call from out of the blue by longtime friend and former MANIACs compatriot, Jonathon Payne. As they sit, shooting the breeze, Payne admits that he is not alone on this visit; David Jones is somewhere nearby, set to join them to talk about what happened and where Cobb sees himself next. Ever the Casanova, Jones finds himself otherwise engaged, trolling the beach in search of the finer sex. When Jones does find Payne and Cobb, they discuss a potential job lead for Cobb, though he'll answer to a Frenchman, something that neither Payne nor Jones can stomach themselves. An interesting means of laying the groundwork for Cobb's entrance into the Hunters realm, and surely of interest to fans of Kuzneski's work.
I have enjoyed Kuzneski's writing for a number of years now, both his highly entertaining banter between characters and the fast-paced adventures in which the reader has a front row seat. When his newer series began, things seemed a little like these folks were parachuted in from nowhere, though hints were left for the reader to piece together a loose backstory. With this new collection of novellas, the reader is able to pair what they know about the characters with something more in-depth, without being too long or drawn out. It's a perfect read, quick and to the point, while still offering up the Kuzneski flavour that the reader will likely want. One can hope these novellas will be released in relatively short order, as a full-length novel is what I really seek in the coming year or so. That said, I can be sated, temporarily.
Kudos, Mr. Kuzneski for re-introducing us to some of your best characters in these shorter pieces. I cannot wait to see what other novellas you have waiting to release.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Choosing to finally reveal more about the Hunters before they became a team, Chris Kuzneski has decided to pen a number of novellas to offer their essential backstories. First on the list is the purported leader, Jack Cobb. As the story opens, Cobb is in Florida, fresh off a dishonourable discharge from the U.S. Army. Unsure what to do next, he receives a call from out of the blue by longtime friend and former MANIACs compatriot, Jonathon Payne. As they sit, shooting the breeze, Payne admits that he is not alone on this visit; David Jones is somewhere nearby, set to join them to talk about what happened and where Cobb sees himself next. Ever the Casanova, Jones finds himself otherwise engaged, trolling the beach in search of the finer sex. When Jones does find Payne and Cobb, they discuss a potential job lead for Cobb, though he'll answer to a Frenchman, something that neither Payne nor Jones can stomach themselves. An interesting means of laying the groundwork for Cobb's entrance into the Hunters realm, and surely of interest to fans of Kuzneski's work.
I have enjoyed Kuzneski's writing for a number of years now, both his highly entertaining banter between characters and the fast-paced adventures in which the reader has a front row seat. When his newer series began, things seemed a little like these folks were parachuted in from nowhere, though hints were left for the reader to piece together a loose backstory. With this new collection of novellas, the reader is able to pair what they know about the characters with something more in-depth, without being too long or drawn out. It's a perfect read, quick and to the point, while still offering up the Kuzneski flavour that the reader will likely want. One can hope these novellas will be released in relatively short order, as a full-length novel is what I really seek in the coming year or so. That said, I can be sated, temporarily.
Kudos, Mr. Kuzneski for re-introducing us to some of your best characters in these shorter pieces. I cannot wait to see what other novellas you have waiting to release.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 5, 2016
A short read but I love this authors characters and they would kick Jack Reachers a#se. I would read this authors shopping list (all his books are awesome). If you have not read anything by him. Buckle up and enjoy the ride.
December 4, 2016
Really enjoyed The Hunters books, so great to hear the back story of their leader, Cobb, and absolutely delighted that it was an opportunity for Payne and Jones to resurface; I'd missed those guys!
July 1, 2017
Way too short, but fulfilled its purpose. A short look at how Jack Cobb came to lead the hunters, and his friendship with Payne and Jones. Incredibly funny and enjoyable, this should not be missed.
February 15, 2017
I was disappointed. It was exactly as promised, but somehow after reading other books by the same author I was expecting fireworks. It was probably my own fault. :-) The other books are all action packed roller coaster rides, this one was more of a whimper
May 1, 2022
I am a massive fan of this author, the banter between characters always makes me laugh and makes me realise how much I miss them!
This story is short and sweet, introducing us to Jack and how he joins the Hunters. I like how DJ and Payne are used as well, to link the two series.
Overall, a fun and quick read!
This story is short and sweet, introducing us to Jack and how he joins the Hunters. I like how DJ and Payne are used as well, to link the two series.
Overall, a fun and quick read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2023
Prequel to the Hunter series
I found Chris Kuzneski's Hunters series of books by chance. There are 3 plus the prequel and are inventive adventures using historical figures. I enjoyed the characters and his style of writing. I am now about to start reading his Payne and Jones series. I just hope that a new Hunters book will be written soon.
I found Chris Kuzneski's Hunters series of books by chance. There are 3 plus the prequel and are inventive adventures using historical figures. I enjoyed the characters and his style of writing. I am now about to start reading his Payne and Jones series. I just hope that a new Hunters book will be written soon.
September 3, 2019
Introduction to Jackson Cobb of the Hunter series...
It's great how the author has seamlessly introduced a new story line to the popular Payne & Jones story...
A fast read to be finished in one sitting...
Regards,
Sri
It's great how the author has seamlessly introduced a new story line to the popular Payne & Jones story...
A fast read to be finished in one sitting...
Regards,
Sri
May 24, 2017
Laughed a lot!
I loved this novella!! I laughed so much and really liked all the characters. This is the first Hunters I have read but have read the Payne and Jones books.
I loved this novella!! I laughed so much and really liked all the characters. This is the first Hunters I have read but have read the Payne and Jones books.
March 17, 2018
Really only a short story. But it does give insight into Jack Cobb and is a lead in into the Hunters books
April 1, 2022
Fantastic
Yet another fabulous book by Chris Kuzneski, the first in The Hunters series. Every page an adventurous ,thrilling read. Could not recommend a better author.
Yet another fabulous book by Chris Kuzneski, the first in The Hunters series. Every page an adventurous ,thrilling read. Could not recommend a better author.
June 2, 2022
Finally read this master piece. The hunters series will always be my favourite from this author
June 9, 2022
Before the Storm
Crass & vulgar banter; continual F-bombs. Everything a 19 year old guy would want in a book. No thanks. Not for me.
Crass & vulgar banter; continual F-bombs. Everything a 19 year old guy would want in a book. No thanks. Not for me.
February 18, 2023
Too short! Loved the connection between the two series.
Read
April 6, 2023Different
September 22, 2018
Jack Cobb was in Florida with the heat of summer after the unexpected dishonorable discharge from US Army. There’s rumor surrounded Jack Cobb that prevented him from finding another job related to his skill. His military life and reputation has gone. His best friends, Jonathon Payne and David Jones coincidentally on vacation at the same place where Jack is. Those trio are having a drink together and to cheer up Jack while fully understand his current situation. Jack needs a small help from his friend to find a job. Jon and Jones talked about an “adventure”. After that, their adventure has led them being contacted by historians and archaeologist alike and they made a fortune. Jack are interested and would do anything just to get a job. Jon then mentions a French guy, a millionaire who is serious about antiques.
January 3, 2017
First in a set of short stories giving more insight into the main characters in the hunters series. This one starts with Jack Cobb, recently dishonourably discharged from the army meets up with old friends (Payne & Jones) looking for work. No real action, just a bar room meeting, but some good interactions.
December 24, 2016
Great short story about what happened before the Hunters got together. Of course add in a dose of Payne & Jones and you get witty banter in the mix too. However I must warn you that reading this story will only make you extremely eager for the next adventure with the Hunters and Payne and Jones.
January 23, 2017
The first in the Hunter Origins series, We find Jack Cobb struggling with life on civi street but then meets up with Payne and Jones and well you'll have to read to find out.
I also agree with previous reviewer that it would be great to see Payne and Jones join the Hunters for a full blown novel.
I also agree with previous reviewer that it would be great to see Payne and Jones join the Hunters for a full blown novel.
January 4, 2017
I need the second installment ASAP!!
I can't wait to see where this goes... I love the banter between the three of them. Plus I want to know how much the bill is for taking out all 10 of those girls!!
I can't wait to see where this goes... I love the banter between the three of them. Plus I want to know how much the bill is for taking out all 10 of those girls!!
January 4, 2017
Before the Storm. Chris Kuzneski
This short novella launches the "Hunter" series by Chris kuzneski. It explains in hilarious detail how he obtained his first client. From this originates a tremendous collection of stories that are extremely well written action thrillers.
This short novella launches the "Hunter" series by Chris kuzneski. It explains in hilarious detail how he obtained his first client. From this originates a tremendous collection of stories that are extremely well written action thrillers.
December 2, 2016
Before the Storm is the 1st of the origins stories that give us background and information on Jack, the star of the Hunter's Series.
Great to see his friends, Payne and Jones helping him out.
Great to see his friends, Payne and Jones helping him out.
December 3, 2016
I loved this book. It was fun and easy to read. Had all that you could expect from Payne and Jones. And the mesh up with Cobb was great to read.
December 10, 2016
Brilliant book. Can't wait for more to come. Look forward the film coming soon.
Excellent background to the characters in the The Hunters.
Highly recommended read
Excellent background to the characters in the The Hunters.
Highly recommended read
December 19, 2016
It was an ok introduction. Provides a little more info.
December 26, 2016
Cheated
It started well then finished, it was like reading chapter 1 of a 20 chapter book, 3 guys talking shit in a bar... end of story.
It started well then finished, it was like reading chapter 1 of a 20 chapter book, 3 guys talking shit in a bar... end of story.
August 4, 2017
Entertaining short story which filled a hole while waiting in a queue. DJ and Payne's banter is always a giggle to read. When's the next book?
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews