What do you think?
Rate this book
Jonathan Quinn #11
The Aggrieved
NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author Brett Battles delivers an international espionage thriller with relentless action and gut wrenching suspense. The unthinkable has happened. A life has been extinguished—one belonging to someone Jonathan Quinn and his partner Nate care about more than almost anyone else in the world. Those responsible will pay. No matter how long it takes, no matter how far and wide the search, Quinn, Nate, and their colleagues will stop at nothing to exact the appropriate justice. Because if there is one thing those in the shadow world should know, you do not mess with Quinn’s people.
PRAISE FOR BATTLES' WRITING “Battles' writing is addictive." —NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author, James Rollins “Brilliant and heart pounding.” —NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author, Jeffery Deaver “Battles is a master storyteller.” —NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author, Sheldon Siegel
OVER 2,000 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ POSITIVE REVIEWS ON GOODREADS AND AMAZON ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Pedal against the Metal from Page One! Loved it!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Best intrigue, action, & characters in the series so far!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Battles does it again! This is a must read!"
PRAISE FOR BATTLES' WRITING “Battles' writing is addictive." —NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author, James Rollins “Brilliant and heart pounding.” —NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author, Jeffery Deaver “Battles is a master storyteller.” —NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author, Sheldon Siegel
OVER 2,000 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ POSITIVE REVIEWS ON GOODREADS AND AMAZON ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Pedal against the Metal from Page One! Loved it!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Best intrigue, action, & characters in the series so far!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Battles does it again! This is a must read!"
324 pages, Paperback
First published July 3, 2017
681 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
About the author
Brett Battles
90 books1,062 followersBrett Battles is a NEW YORK TIMES bestselling and Barry Award-winning author of forty novels, including the Jonathan Quinn series and its Excoms spinoff, the Project Eden series, and the time bending Rewinder series. He’s also the coauthor, with Robert Gregory Browne, of the Alexandra Poe series. He is one of the founding members of Killer Year, and is a member of Mystery Writers of America and International Thriller Writers. He lives and writes in Ventura County, California.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
June 5, 2017
Things will never be the same again...
With the previous cliffhanger in The Unleashed, we were left holding our collective breath for over a year. The Aggrieved picks up right where it left off, bringing you right up to speed and asking the question, what do they do now?
The short answer, read this and find out. It is worth every moment spent engrossed in the story. Seeing each member of the team go through the grieving process as they deal with the situation at hand adds even more depth to the characters. The technical aspects are realistic, the tradecraft believable. It is fast paced and as action-filled as you would expect, but never gratuitous. Even if this is your first experience with Quinn, it is a great way to be introduced to the series. It’s just a really good read.
After much more than a dozen Quinn stories I had a lingering fear that the stories might become too repetitive, or formulaic. It has happened with so many other authors who know they have an audience. Brett Battles never seems to take the reader for granted. This book is as well written and visually descriptive as any in the series. You can clearly imagine every scene and I never once felt as if the book moved too slowly or too skipped anything. With such a long history for Quinn and the rest, you begin to feel as if you are truly inside the minds of these characters and invested in their outcome. Every action they take is believable and only reinforces the idea you have of them in your mind. Something I've found in other books by Brett Battles as well regardless of genre.
There are times where I miss the simplicity of Quinn and Nate working as Cleaners and doing their jobs like no one can, but as the characters have grown and matured, their lives have as well. That is part of what I love about these books and the characters. As they have evolved and opened their lives to others, this has inevitably given them more to risk and unfortunately more to lose. Family, friends, loved ones, as each is exposed to their world there is always the underlying fear of what could happen.
If I had one request it would be for a short story or two showing Team Quinn doing what it does best in between these larger moments. Even a flash back like Becoming Quinn or just a larger glimpse into their downtime, they certainly have deserved it after this!
With the previous cliffhanger in The Unleashed, we were left holding our collective breath for over a year. The Aggrieved picks up right where it left off, bringing you right up to speed and asking the question, what do they do now?
The short answer, read this and find out. It is worth every moment spent engrossed in the story. Seeing each member of the team go through the grieving process as they deal with the situation at hand adds even more depth to the characters. The technical aspects are realistic, the tradecraft believable. It is fast paced and as action-filled as you would expect, but never gratuitous. Even if this is your first experience with Quinn, it is a great way to be introduced to the series. It’s just a really good read.
After much more than a dozen Quinn stories I had a lingering fear that the stories might become too repetitive, or formulaic. It has happened with so many other authors who know they have an audience. Brett Battles never seems to take the reader for granted. This book is as well written and visually descriptive as any in the series. You can clearly imagine every scene and I never once felt as if the book moved too slowly or too skipped anything. With such a long history for Quinn and the rest, you begin to feel as if you are truly inside the minds of these characters and invested in their outcome. Every action they take is believable and only reinforces the idea you have of them in your mind. Something I've found in other books by Brett Battles as well regardless of genre.
There are times where I miss the simplicity of Quinn and Nate working as Cleaners and doing their jobs like no one can, but as the characters have grown and matured, their lives have as well. That is part of what I love about these books and the characters. As they have evolved and opened their lives to others, this has inevitably given them more to risk and unfortunately more to lose. Family, friends, loved ones, as each is exposed to their world there is always the underlying fear of what could happen.
If I had one request it would be for a short story or two showing Team Quinn doing what it does best in between these larger moments. Even a flash back like Becoming Quinn or just a larger glimpse into their downtime, they certainly have deserved it after this!
June 5, 2017
It blows me away that we are already at Book 11 in the Quinn series. My introduction to Brett Battles was Book 1 of this series. I couldn't put the book down. I have read every Quinn novel and short story Battles has written. And in between, I've read every other book he's ever written. He's that great!
I'm a mom of two young kids which doesn't leave me with a whole lot of time for myself, but I pick up Battles' books every time they're available.
Book 11, The Aggrieved is fantastic! It's raw, suspenseful, emotional and gut-wrenching. Start from the beginning of the series so you know what's going on, and if you're worried that the series will get stale as it goes on....don't be. It's as fresh as it was at Book 1. I love Jonathan Quinn and how complex he is. His relationship with Orlando is amazing, but not over the top mushy. Orlando is a bad ass woman and I love the way Battles writes female characters. They are complex and multi-dimensional, smart and capable women. They hold their own with the male characters. Way to go, BB!!
This is a great summer read (a great any time read), and if you're a Quinn fan you will NOT be disappointed. Book 10 ended with such a cliffhanger and I've been waiting this entire year with baited breath to see what happened to my friends. Battles makes me feel as if I'm standing in the shadows watching the story unfold.
Brett Battles, please don't stop writing. And I agree with another reviewer who said they would like little novellas in between the novels where the gang is doing their Cleaner jobs. Love that idea!! I cannot get enough of Quinn, Orlando and the gang. Frankly, I cannot get enough of Brett Battles!!
I'm a mom of two young kids which doesn't leave me with a whole lot of time for myself, but I pick up Battles' books every time they're available.
Book 11, The Aggrieved is fantastic! It's raw, suspenseful, emotional and gut-wrenching. Start from the beginning of the series so you know what's going on, and if you're worried that the series will get stale as it goes on....don't be. It's as fresh as it was at Book 1. I love Jonathan Quinn and how complex he is. His relationship with Orlando is amazing, but not over the top mushy. Orlando is a bad ass woman and I love the way Battles writes female characters. They are complex and multi-dimensional, smart and capable women. They hold their own with the male characters. Way to go, BB!!
This is a great summer read (a great any time read), and if you're a Quinn fan you will NOT be disappointed. Book 10 ended with such a cliffhanger and I've been waiting this entire year with baited breath to see what happened to my friends. Battles makes me feel as if I'm standing in the shadows watching the story unfold.
Brett Battles, please don't stop writing. And I agree with another reviewer who said they would like little novellas in between the novels where the gang is doing their Cleaner jobs. Love that idea!! I cannot get enough of Quinn, Orlando and the gang. Frankly, I cannot get enough of Brett Battles!!
June 10, 2017
This is one of my favourite series and The Aggrieved does not disappoint. BB made a brave decision at the end of the last book which adds some real personal angst to the characters and the storyline this time out.
This story is very team focussed compared to the early books in the series and the newer characters develop nicely. Jar is a bit annoying at the start but I soon found myself chuckling to her comments. Ananke etc were also involved towards the end with Dylan looking like a good character too.
It was great that it was largely set in Europe and the U.K. in particular.... although the US terminology obviously continued (they are motorways not freeways!).
Although the storyline of the book was resolved there is clearly going to be some ongoing stress in Quinn and Nates relationship. Hopefully it's back to normal next time out but I fear BB is going to build on the Quinn / Nate fued.
This story is very team focussed compared to the early books in the series and the newer characters develop nicely. Jar is a bit annoying at the start but I soon found myself chuckling to her comments. Ananke etc were also involved towards the end with Dylan looking like a good character too.
It was great that it was largely set in Europe and the U.K. in particular.... although the US terminology obviously continued (they are motorways not freeways!).
Although the storyline of the book was resolved there is clearly going to be some ongoing stress in Quinn and Nates relationship. Hopefully it's back to normal next time out but I fear BB is going to build on the Quinn / Nate fued.
June 7, 2017
I have read all the Jonathan Quinn books, starting with the Cleaner. As the books progressed charterers were introduced and we got to know them. In the last book, I was very sad that a main character that I loved was killed (will not say who -spoiler-). It was upsetting! But this book had a deeper feel because of the tragedy. Poor Nate!
Quinn and his gang go after the ones responsible. In the process, they help Dima and her sister to freedom. As they race to find the killer, other groups are after the killer too, they must be careful because one group will stop at nothing to protect the killer! Lots of action.
I do miss the original work that Quinn and his gang did-cleaning-but enjoyed this latest installment of the Cleaner! Thank you, Bret, for loaning me a copy.
Quinn and his gang go after the ones responsible. In the process, they help Dima and her sister to freedom. As they race to find the killer, other groups are after the killer too, they must be careful because one group will stop at nothing to protect the killer! Lots of action.
I do miss the original work that Quinn and his gang did-cleaning-but enjoyed this latest installment of the Cleaner! Thank you, Bret, for loaning me a copy.
June 4, 2017
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book from Brett himself.
It had been a while since I had read a Quinn book, but loved this. I have fallen back in love with Quinn and the gang.
Really great, fast moving book, it was good to see the EXCOMS in the book as well.
Brilliant book, great read. Thanks Brett.
It had been a while since I had read a Quinn book, but loved this. I have fallen back in love with Quinn and the gang.
Really great, fast moving book, it was good to see the EXCOMS in the book as well.
Brilliant book, great read. Thanks Brett.
June 7, 2017
The Quinn series has gone downhill and needs a reboot. Trying to do narrative across the seperate books has put everything into a chase mode so that this one is really about how to navigate various transportation systems, mostly in Western Europe. When an author stops to chart out various itineraries on the London tube you know they're reaching. All this running around might work as a movie screenplay (it's not unlike the Bourne franchise) and this may be the intention.
June 16, 2017
I absolutely hate the continuing porltion of a cliff hanger story. Given the time frame between publsihing of the novels, I have totally forgotten who the bad guys are or why Quinn is in the position he was in. Liz, Quinn's sister and Nate's squeeze, was killed at the end of the previous story and I had no recollection as to what that was all about.
As much as I've enjoyed Battle's Quinn character over the years, I'm done. Getting too old to remember plots from a year ago.
As much as I've enjoyed Battle's Quinn character over the years, I'm done. Getting too old to remember plots from a year ago.
June 23, 2017
This was a good spy vs spy novel, but had very little heart to it. I'm liking Quinn less and less, and even Nate, who has been the one to keep you pulling for the good guys, is very wooden in this episode. Hope Battles gets back on track with the emotional content.
June 12, 2017
A decade-plus and an additional ten books since the release of The Cleaner – the first title in the compelling Jonathan Quinn series – has seen a lot of changes for Brett Battles’ signature character and his eclectic group of specialists that live and work in the shadowy and often messy world of international intrigue.
Nate began as the clueless apprentice. He would later become an equal partner and a compelling character in his own right. Orlando was the estranged colleague and lost love. She would become Quinn’s wife, partner, and the mother of his child.
The Office and its enigmatic leader Peter have been dead and gone for a few books now. There is a scene in The Aggrieved, however, that gives readers hope that The Office might return in the near future. Perhaps Quinn will lead it, and Nate will be its go-to Cleaner?
One can always hope.
And for all these changes and character development that readers have witnessed in the past decade of reading about Jonathan Quinn – there’s one theme that has always been central, has never wavered, and that we clearly see front and center as events unfold in The Aggrieved: for all the evil he’s witnessed and the many terrible things he’s had to do, Quinn is the good guy.
That fact allows author Battles to play harshly with readers’ emotions in The Aggrieved.
Quinn has to deliver the worst possible news to his own mother – and endures words no son should ever have to live with.
Quinn has to go against Helen, who is more or less one of the good guys, when he attempts to track down Dima, a character central to the last book (which set in motion the events that unfold in The Aggrieved – first-time readers, however, no worries; the author brilliantly begins the story so that you’re pulled right in and up to speed even if you haven’t read the previous book).
After finding Dima, Quinn asks for her help – even though doing so will once again put Dima at risk.
And then the conflict between Quinn and Nate, who is suffering as bad as Quinn from the act of violence in Jakarta that set this story in motion …
Yet, despite all this, what I truly loved about this book is that Quinn, at the absolute lowest we’ve ever seen him in the past decade of reading about his exploits, is proven to have been right in maintaining his “good guy” integrity throughout all the books. Countless people that live in the same shadowy world aid his pursuit of a killer – but it is their respect for him, rather than money or favors or anything else, that brings them to his aid.
I think it’s a profound message for an author to be able to make in any book – but especially while writing a thriller that literally carries readers breathlessly on an edge-of-your-seat around the world journey.
In The Aggrieved, Orlando asks Quinn repeatedly, “What are you going to do?”
About his mom, Dima, Nate, and the killer they’re pursuing … and Quinn doesn’t have the answers. But in the end his true character compels him to act in a way that validates who he has been for the previous ten books, and I absolutely loved it. There were so many ways that Battles could have gone with this story – and while most of them would have been satisfying, I’m sure, he chose to push us right to the edge of Quinn’s breaking point … and then he brought us back.
The result?
This is the best Quinn book since the original title in the series.
It is fast-paced, unpredictable, filled with action, meticulously plotted, and boasts some of the most original characters in the thriller genre.
This is an emphatic 5 stars. I highly recommend it to thriller/espionage fans. If you’ve never read Brett Battles, well, it is ridiculous how many awards he has won and it all started with this series… so get busy reading the Jonathan Quinn series.
***
I received a free digital edition of this book for review purposes. The review reflects my own unbiased opinion of the book’s content.
Nate began as the clueless apprentice. He would later become an equal partner and a compelling character in his own right. Orlando was the estranged colleague and lost love. She would become Quinn’s wife, partner, and the mother of his child.
The Office and its enigmatic leader Peter have been dead and gone for a few books now. There is a scene in The Aggrieved, however, that gives readers hope that The Office might return in the near future. Perhaps Quinn will lead it, and Nate will be its go-to Cleaner?
One can always hope.
And for all these changes and character development that readers have witnessed in the past decade of reading about Jonathan Quinn – there’s one theme that has always been central, has never wavered, and that we clearly see front and center as events unfold in The Aggrieved: for all the evil he’s witnessed and the many terrible things he’s had to do, Quinn is the good guy.
That fact allows author Battles to play harshly with readers’ emotions in The Aggrieved.
Quinn has to deliver the worst possible news to his own mother – and endures words no son should ever have to live with.
Quinn has to go against Helen, who is more or less one of the good guys, when he attempts to track down Dima, a character central to the last book (which set in motion the events that unfold in The Aggrieved – first-time readers, however, no worries; the author brilliantly begins the story so that you’re pulled right in and up to speed even if you haven’t read the previous book).
After finding Dima, Quinn asks for her help – even though doing so will once again put Dima at risk.
And then the conflict between Quinn and Nate, who is suffering as bad as Quinn from the act of violence in Jakarta that set this story in motion …
Yet, despite all this, what I truly loved about this book is that Quinn, at the absolute lowest we’ve ever seen him in the past decade of reading about his exploits, is proven to have been right in maintaining his “good guy” integrity throughout all the books. Countless people that live in the same shadowy world aid his pursuit of a killer – but it is their respect for him, rather than money or favors or anything else, that brings them to his aid.
I think it’s a profound message for an author to be able to make in any book – but especially while writing a thriller that literally carries readers breathlessly on an edge-of-your-seat around the world journey.
In The Aggrieved, Orlando asks Quinn repeatedly, “What are you going to do?”
About his mom, Dima, Nate, and the killer they’re pursuing … and Quinn doesn’t have the answers. But in the end his true character compels him to act in a way that validates who he has been for the previous ten books, and I absolutely loved it. There were so many ways that Battles could have gone with this story – and while most of them would have been satisfying, I’m sure, he chose to push us right to the edge of Quinn’s breaking point … and then he brought us back.
The result?
This is the best Quinn book since the original title in the series.
It is fast-paced, unpredictable, filled with action, meticulously plotted, and boasts some of the most original characters in the thriller genre.
This is an emphatic 5 stars. I highly recommend it to thriller/espionage fans. If you’ve never read Brett Battles, well, it is ridiculous how many awards he has won and it all started with this series… so get busy reading the Jonathan Quinn series.
***
I received a free digital edition of this book for review purposes. The review reflects my own unbiased opinion of the book’s content.
May 21, 2018
I'm not entirely sure what to make of this book, the 15th or is it 16th (including novellas) in the Quinn series.
I have mixed emotions about this book. While I enjoyed reading another installment in the Quinn Saga, this book honestly felt like it was trying to hard to rejuvenate/revitalize the series. I haven't given up on Quinn yet, but think Battles should take a break from the Cleaner's world for a while. In the meantime, I think I'll be adding ExComs to my reading list.
Solid 3-Star book.
Wasn't the best book I've read in a while, but wasn't the worse either.
I have mixed emotions about this book. While I enjoyed reading another installment in the Quinn Saga, this book honestly felt like it was trying to hard to rejuvenate/revitalize the series. I haven't given up on Quinn yet, but think Battles should take a break from the Cleaner's world for a while. In the meantime, I think I'll be adding ExComs to my reading list.
Solid 3-Star book.
Wasn't the best book I've read in a while, but wasn't the worse either.
April 6, 2018
Jakarta, Indonesia. Jonathan Quinn was following 1 of Kiet’s man.
Orlando, Garrett (Orlando’s son), Claire (7 months, Orlando’s daughter), Jar (f, information tech), Dima, Liz (Jonathan’s sister), & Nate (Jonathan’s partner) were all there.
Daeng (Jonathan’s BMF) helped steady Jonathan, he was exhausted from running/chasing the kidnapper.
Garrett & Claire had been kidnapped.
Singapore, Southeast Asia. Nate, Daeng, & Jar were closely following their target Mr. Freddie Sheng (48, millionaire, operations mgr., info broker, divorced x2, 5 kids, former Interpol, Singapore PD).
Nate (Quinn’s partner) got the door open so they could all enter the compound.
Jonathan was devastated.
Warroad, MN. Orlando handled most of funeral arrangements for Liz.
The Mole was try in to locate Dima (XA014).
The group went to see Reiko Klassen pad.
In a few minutes Jar had the safe open.
NC. The team had located/found Dima (Pakistani, Muslim).
Quinn & Orlando informed her they were looking for Liz’s assassin.
Nate was in pursuit of Katrine Dehler (espionage).
For now, he gave up looking for her.
Nate went to see Karl Reiser (German operative) if he might know where Katrine was.
Orlando called Margery to see if she received the final delivery.
Nate, Daeng, Ananke, Liesel, Jar, Monica (infiltration specialist), & Kite were scoping out Katrine’s apartment.
Daeng called Mr. Cooper (boss) to let him know what was going down.
Daeng had also been keeping an eye on Tahir Halabi (terrorist).
Youssef guard, Bilal, Tahir, had been tranquilized.
What were Mr. Hammad Kassab (Uncle, guardian, businessman), & Jonathan discussing?
Annabel Taplin had been waiting outside.
Dylan, Rosario, & Jar were still chasing Katrine.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written international espionage (spy v spy) thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great pulp fiction movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Orlando, Garrett (Orlando’s son), Claire (7 months, Orlando’s daughter), Jar (f, information tech), Dima, Liz (Jonathan’s sister), & Nate (Jonathan’s partner) were all there.
Daeng (Jonathan’s BMF) helped steady Jonathan, he was exhausted from running/chasing the kidnapper.
Garrett & Claire had been kidnapped.
Singapore, Southeast Asia. Nate, Daeng, & Jar were closely following their target Mr. Freddie Sheng (48, millionaire, operations mgr., info broker, divorced x2, 5 kids, former Interpol, Singapore PD).
Nate (Quinn’s partner) got the door open so they could all enter the compound.
Jonathan was devastated.
Warroad, MN. Orlando handled most of funeral arrangements for Liz.
The Mole was try in to locate Dima (XA014).
The group went to see Reiko Klassen pad.
In a few minutes Jar had the safe open.
NC. The team had located/found Dima (Pakistani, Muslim).
Quinn & Orlando informed her they were looking for Liz’s assassin.
Nate was in pursuit of Katrine Dehler (espionage).
For now, he gave up looking for her.
Nate went to see Karl Reiser (German operative) if he might know where Katrine was.
Orlando called Margery to see if she received the final delivery.
Nate, Daeng, Ananke, Liesel, Jar, Monica (infiltration specialist), & Kite were scoping out Katrine’s apartment.
Daeng called Mr. Cooper (boss) to let him know what was going down.
Daeng had also been keeping an eye on Tahir Halabi (terrorist).
Youssef guard, Bilal, Tahir, had been tranquilized.
What were Mr. Hammad Kassab (Uncle, guardian, businessman), & Jonathan discussing?
Annabel Taplin had been waiting outside.
Dylan, Rosario, & Jar were still chasing Katrine.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written international espionage (spy v spy) thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great pulp fiction movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
June 9, 2017
Writing a review without spoilers is always a challenge. So, I will start by saying this book was a good read and I highly recommend it. If you are totally unfamiliar with the Jonathon Quinn series, I recommend starting with THE CLEANER or the novelette BECOMING QUINN. While the books do not have to be read in order, it helps. The books build on each other in a reasonable fashion, and the characters start to feel like old friends.
I have to admit that after I finished reading book 10 of the series, the Unleashed, I was mad at the author for the ending. He killed off one of my favorite characters. Thinking about it now, I see that this is a testament to the author’s ability to make characters real and endearing. Having followed them through 10 books by then, and now 11, I do care about these characters.
Another trait the books in the series hold in common is that they are all page-turners. The action is fast and full of sensible surprises. By that I mean, I’m thinking, “Why didn’t I guess that?” rather than, “Where did that come from?”
My favorite way to read a book in this series is to clear my schedule, and then make sure I do not have any work left undone so I’m not going to have any interruptions. Then I read the book straight through, and escape into the world that lives on the edge.
This book was no exception. I read it e-cover to e-cover with as few interruptions as possible. I enjoy the way the author takes the action to places in other countries and how realistic he makes the details. I enjoy how the action just keeps building….and, as I said, I enjoy the characters. Even though Quinn and the other characters work in a shady world at the far side of legal, the characters are basically good people and they do have a code and a strong sense of right and wrong. All of these aspects come into play as THE AGGRIEVED dips into the edge of the world of terrorism, pitting Quinn and his team against some terrorist kingpins and their hired assassin. By the end, the reader knows exactly how far Quinn will go to avenge the death of someone he loves.
As I said, I highly recommend this book and the whole series. Start at the beginning of the series, and enjoy.
I have to admit that after I finished reading book 10 of the series, the Unleashed, I was mad at the author for the ending. He killed off one of my favorite characters. Thinking about it now, I see that this is a testament to the author’s ability to make characters real and endearing. Having followed them through 10 books by then, and now 11, I do care about these characters.
Another trait the books in the series hold in common is that they are all page-turners. The action is fast and full of sensible surprises. By that I mean, I’m thinking, “Why didn’t I guess that?” rather than, “Where did that come from?”
My favorite way to read a book in this series is to clear my schedule, and then make sure I do not have any work left undone so I’m not going to have any interruptions. Then I read the book straight through, and escape into the world that lives on the edge.
This book was no exception. I read it e-cover to e-cover with as few interruptions as possible. I enjoy the way the author takes the action to places in other countries and how realistic he makes the details. I enjoy how the action just keeps building….and, as I said, I enjoy the characters. Even though Quinn and the other characters work in a shady world at the far side of legal, the characters are basically good people and they do have a code and a strong sense of right and wrong. All of these aspects come into play as THE AGGRIEVED dips into the edge of the world of terrorism, pitting Quinn and his team against some terrorist kingpins and their hired assassin. By the end, the reader knows exactly how far Quinn will go to avenge the death of someone he loves.
As I said, I highly recommend this book and the whole series. Start at the beginning of the series, and enjoy.
September 9, 2020
I am of two minds about The Aggrieved. On its own, it is a good hunting-down-a-killer story. It picks up right where The Unleashed ended, with Nate chasing the killer and Quinn dealing with funeral arrangements. There are disguises and tracking devices and deception and false identities and every typical spy thing you can think of as the team unravels what happened and why.
But.
Quinn and Nate are cleaners. There is no cleaning going on in this. The Aggrieved is a personal story of vengeance. Other than solidifying Quinn's reputation with his peers, this has little to do with the series itself. Though, to be fair, little in the last couple of books has.
Overall, this is a solid book. It is entertaining and mostly family friendly. it has a little more heart than the last one, though the emotional punch could be a lot stronger. The recurring characters are fun, particularly Ananke and Jar (the name is unfortunate - I think of Jar Jar Binks and shudder). And while the ending isn't a cliffhanger, it also leaves some things unresolved.
But.
Quinn and Nate are cleaners. There is no cleaning going on in this. The Aggrieved is a personal story of vengeance. Other than solidifying Quinn's reputation with his peers, this has little to do with the series itself. Though, to be fair, little in the last couple of books has.
Overall, this is a solid book. It is entertaining and mostly family friendly. it has a little more heart than the last one, though the emotional punch could be a lot stronger. The recurring characters are fun, particularly Ananke and Jar (the name is unfortunate - I think of Jar Jar Binks and shudder). And while the ending isn't a cliffhanger, it also leaves some things unresolved.
October 17, 2022
This book starts much slower than typical. The first third of the book is unnecessary if you already read book 10 (which definitely should be done before reading this one). I think if book 10 and 11 had been edited, the two could have been combined into one suspenseful and better book. As for the characters themselves, Quinn is starting to sound like as much of a jerk as Durrie was. Both Quinn and Nate behave childish and unprofessional. Orlando is more stable and less annoying in this book.
Although I did not find anything memorable about the book, I rounded up to 4 stars because of the ending. I didn't really like the ending from the standpoint of how the characters interacted, but I give the author some credit for having the courage to take this popular series in a different direction in a way some fans may not like. Whether I will like the new direction will be determined by the next couple of books.
Although I did not find anything memorable about the book, I rounded up to 4 stars because of the ending. I didn't really like the ending from the standpoint of how the characters interacted, but I give the author some credit for having the courage to take this popular series in a different direction in a way some fans may not like. Whether I will like the new direction will be determined by the next couple of books.
November 16, 2024
It's crucial that you read at least book 10 in the series before reading this one. There’s information in book 10 that will make book 11 make much more sense.
It’s a full-on quest for vengeance because of the horrifying ending to book 10. Jonathan Quinn is out to find the mysterious agent who deserves death because of her actions in book 10. This is constant fast-paced action that winds its way through Europe. Just when they think they have the enigmatic woman in hand, she evades them.
In fact, the cat-and-mouse portion of this was way too long. The author should have shortened this book by between 20 and 30 percent, and there would have been no measurable loss of quality.
There’s a subplot carry over from book 10 that involves the rescue and reunion of two Pakistani sisters. Quinn’s group rescues them from the worst clutches of fanatical Islam.
It’s a full-on quest for vengeance because of the horrifying ending to book 10. Jonathan Quinn is out to find the mysterious agent who deserves death because of her actions in book 10. This is constant fast-paced action that winds its way through Europe. Just when they think they have the enigmatic woman in hand, she evades them.
In fact, the cat-and-mouse portion of this was way too long. The author should have shortened this book by between 20 and 30 percent, and there would have been no measurable loss of quality.
There’s a subplot carry over from book 10 that involves the rescue and reunion of two Pakistani sisters. Quinn’s group rescues them from the worst clutches of fanatical Islam.
June 12, 2020
So, the end of this was kinda sad but it does lead to Nate’s first book, Night Man.
This was had so many extras in it it was hard to keep track, but really unnecessary. They were after terrorists as well as a woman assassin, so it went from one group to the assassin and all the shooting they did was with tranquilizer guns. AND some of their guests were the crew from the series Excoms.
No romance and the F-bomb was used 2 times. Really? We’ve gone from using fuck anywhere from 20 to 40 times a story to using it 2 times in the last 3 books? I don’t get it. You can’t fill books with killers and bad guys and only hear that word 2 times. C’mon Brett, lets be real!!!
As to the narration: *sigh* Scott Brick, what can I say?
December 19, 2017
So glad to see another Johnathan Quinn novel! Battles continues to find ways to refresh the story while maintaining momentum forward, mixing it up nicely. A compelling blend of action, intrigue, tension and urgency, consistent with the rest of the series. As often before, Battles weaves the complexities together well, splicing various components together to build to a startling conclusion. This one also dovetails nicely and in sequence with his spin-off The Excoms; it really works to go back and forth between the two series.
*Note: The Aggrieved is not a volume to start with if you are new to Quinn, as it depends heavily on the previous volume.
*Note: The Aggrieved is not a volume to start with if you are new to Quinn, as it depends heavily on the previous volume.
July 19, 2020
This one is probably more of a 3.5 stars, but I like this series, so I'm gonna round up.
This one is a continuation of the #10 Unleashed story. The plot is about the attempt by Johnathan Quinn and his band to get revenge for the death or his sister, Liz who was also the love of his partner, Nate. It's the usual sort of complicated plotting and constant action that I like about Battles' writing. Their world is espionage, assassinations and constant "black ops." In this world Battle is one of the best along with Eisler and Thomas Perry. Sorta like a cross between Daniel Silva & Brad Thor with a good bit of Le Carre mixed in.
This one is a continuation of the #10 Unleashed story. The plot is about the attempt by Johnathan Quinn and his band to get revenge for the death or his sister, Liz who was also the love of his partner, Nate. It's the usual sort of complicated plotting and constant action that I like about Battles' writing. Their world is espionage, assassinations and constant "black ops." In this world Battle is one of the best along with Eisler and Thomas Perry. Sorta like a cross between Daniel Silva & Brad Thor with a good bit of Le Carre mixed in.
December 15, 2021
This novel shows our characters on an unlimited budget going everywhere they could possibly think of. Not only that, but they’re calling in favors and getting anybody and everybody involved. While Nate wants to kill the villain, she says it was “just a job” and Quinn wants the justice system to take care of things. While Helen Cho feeds them work and even helps out occasionally, it seems she can be a foe at times as well. The next novel will, hopefully, settle emotional differences and bring the team back into focus.
June 20, 2017
I love this series and it's shadow world full of dark and complex characters. This one did not disappoint. It was suspenseful, had some surprising twists, and kept me biting my nails to the end. There is plenty of conflict and drama, and the relationship between Quinn and his protege Nate takes some hard hits. The conclusion is ultimately satisfying while leaving me anxious for the next in the series.
June 29, 2017
Bad one
I really liked the first books, they were fresh and engaging. But now it is steadily going south. No imagination, really bad. I wouldn't get his book unless it is free. At this point I believe this is my last book of Quinn.
It is so full of useless action and fake emotions! And number of people involved, everybody helping him. I think that Brett Battles lost his touch, not sure he'll ever find it.
Not enough time to read bad books. Goodbye, Quinn...
I really liked the first books, they were fresh and engaging. But now it is steadily going south. No imagination, really bad. I wouldn't get his book unless it is free. At this point I believe this is my last book of Quinn.
It is so full of useless action and fake emotions! And number of people involved, everybody helping him. I think that Brett Battles lost his touch, not sure he'll ever find it.
Not enough time to read bad books. Goodbye, Quinn...
July 5, 2017
Toast
Remind me never to put myself in a situation
where Quinn and his people are after me. Their
professional tenaciousness was uncompromising.
Past that, though this story was written superbly,
it was single minded in its plot and storyline and
I would have liked more depth. Great characters
though, and that detail about the Swiss hotel took
incredible imagination. Hopefully it was imaginary!!
Remind me never to put myself in a situation
where Quinn and his people are after me. Their
professional tenaciousness was uncompromising.
Past that, though this story was written superbly,
it was single minded in its plot and storyline and
I would have liked more depth. Great characters
though, and that detail about the Swiss hotel took
incredible imagination. Hopefully it was imaginary!!
August 5, 2017
Battles Keeps Up the Pace
After the humdinger of an ending in the last book, I could hardly wait for this one to pick up where things left off. As usual, Battles delivered another edge-of-your-seat thriller in The Aggrieved. Was justice delivered? Depends on whose perspective you take! Either way, Book 12 in the Quinn series will be much anticipated as will Book 2 of the Excoms. I'm loving the overlap!
After the humdinger of an ending in the last book, I could hardly wait for this one to pick up where things left off. As usual, Battles delivered another edge-of-your-seat thriller in The Aggrieved. Was justice delivered? Depends on whose perspective you take! Either way, Book 12 in the Quinn series will be much anticipated as will Book 2 of the Excoms. I'm loving the overlap!
June 23, 2020
The unthinkable has happened. A life has been extinguished—one belonging to someone Jonathan Quinn and his partner Nate care about more than almost anyone else in the world.
Those responsible will pay.
No matter how long it takes, no matter how far and wide the search, Quinn, Nate, and their colleagues will stop at nothing to exact the appropriate justice.
Because if there is one thing those in the shadow world should know, you do not mess with Quinn’s people.
Those responsible will pay.
No matter how long it takes, no matter how far and wide the search, Quinn, Nate, and their colleagues will stop at nothing to exact the appropriate justice.
Because if there is one thing those in the shadow world should know, you do not mess with Quinn’s people.
May 19, 2021
I always enjoy this series. This installment introduces a number of characters that we've not met before who may have future roles in the series. Without spoiling anything, I will be interested in seeing whether Jar, Dylan and Ananke pop up later. The pace of the story is good, the twin plot lines develop well, the characters are believable (in the context of suspending disbelief) and I would recommend it as another fun ride with Quinn et al.
July 5, 2017
Great chapter in the Cleaner series
What do you do when your sister is killed by a professional hitman? Right, a chase for the killer starts. 😇. This book was another great read by the writer whose books are amidst my favorites. Loved the characters and the setting. I will be back for his next book👍
What do you do when your sister is killed by a professional hitman? Right, a chase for the killer starts. 😇. This book was another great read by the writer whose books are amidst my favorites. Loved the characters and the setting. I will be back for his next book👍
February 4, 2018
As with all Brett Battles books I've read, this one was 5 stars. His characters are so likeable and always willing to do what needs to be done to protect the innocent and, one way or the other, remove the ability of the despicable to do harm. I enjoyed the new characters in this one; look forward to reading about them in the future.
July 2, 2018
Brett Battles continues to impress me
My wife and I have been reading nonstop. She’s on book 10, and I just finished book 11. Nonstop heart pumping action. Never a dull moment. Now I’m going to go back and read some of Brett’s earlier novels. But tonight I’m going to relax my eyes and my brain. 5+ stars. Dr. C. 🎉🎊🍾🍷
My wife and I have been reading nonstop. She’s on book 10, and I just finished book 11. Nonstop heart pumping action. Never a dull moment. Now I’m going to go back and read some of Brett’s earlier novels. But tonight I’m going to relax my eyes and my brain. 5+ stars. Dr. C. 🎉🎊🍾🍷
August 27, 2020
Another great book! Not everything goes as planned all the time. But payback is a b***h. Mhmm. Especially, if you harmed Quinn or anyone close to him.
This series is A M A Z I N G!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Read it, you will not be disappointed.
Scott Brick is fantastic. He narrates this whole series and does a super job. Thank you Scott Brick and Brett Battles for this audible series!
This series is A M A Z I N G!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Read it, you will not be disappointed.
Scott Brick is fantastic. He narrates this whole series and does a super job. Thank you Scott Brick and Brett Battles for this audible series!
October 17, 2020
Another great book from Brett Battles. In the Aggrieved Jonathan finishes the revenge that he started in the Unleashed. I really enjoy the new additions in his merry band of friends. Despite the fact that most of these stories is about killing and disposing of bodies there is a lot of humor in them and I really like that. The series is in my opinion is only getting better with every book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews