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Xander King #3
King's Ransom
Some ransoms are paid in blood.
They kidnapped his woman. They killed his champion racehorse. But they should have killed him.
Xander King, an ex-Spec Ops legend, is on the hunt for revenge in Paris after being targeted by a ruthless terrorist. It's a race against the clock to save Natalie, and the ransom is Xander's life for hers. A price he's willing to pay. But when his team learns of a far more sinister plan to strike a blow against America, the cost might be more than any of them can afford.
One highly skilled team. Two insidious acts to stop. And thousands of lives at stake. The hunt is on.
The Xander King Series Order:
Whiskey & Roses
Vanquish
King's Ransom
They kidnapped his woman. They killed his champion racehorse. But they should have killed him.
Xander King, an ex-Spec Ops legend, is on the hunt for revenge in Paris after being targeted by a ruthless terrorist. It's a race against the clock to save Natalie, and the ransom is Xander's life for hers. A price he's willing to pay. But when his team learns of a far more sinister plan to strike a blow against America, the cost might be more than any of them can afford.
One highly skilled team. Two insidious acts to stop. And thousands of lives at stake. The hunt is on.
The Xander King Series Order:
Whiskey & Roses
Vanquish
King's Ransom
306 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2017
1660 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
May 5, 2025
I maintain that this series is completely over the top while being so damn enjoyable that I can’t help but love every silly minute of it. There were some truly horrific scenes though and I may experience recurring trauma even if Xander and his friends don’t. I love the camaraderie and the badassery of this group. Sometimes things don’t have to be believable to be awesome. This is one of those times.
Want to read
August 13, 2017AMAZON FREEBIE 8/6/17
January 28, 2018
This is the final book from this series. After the second book I could not stop and had to keep going. The characters are what bring you back to this book. Also they are not superhuman immortals that seem incapable of being damaged. There are injuries and they are believable. And yet the action continues allowing the other characters to develop. Sam and Kyle are my favorites.
You will enjoy this fast paced book, with exciting locations and just the right amount of detail. Xander is a very interesting character, truly noble to a fault and has to overcome many twists and turns throughout this series. I recommend getting all three books and reading them back to back.
You will enjoy this fast paced book, with exciting locations and just the right amount of detail. Xander is a very interesting character, truly noble to a fault and has to overcome many twists and turns throughout this series. I recommend getting all three books and reading them back to back.
December 8, 2020
another heart-pounding action thriller. i always like novels where villain is not some dumb gun totting idiot. the meticulous planning and executing with back plans makes this a thrilling ride.
April 6, 2018
I was devastated, being a horse lover, Kings Ransom has been killed. Why ? Who could be that cruel, an innocent animal.... Well of course you know that Xander will definitely be hunting hard for whoever did this.. He loved Kings Ransom and someone will pay. Then another bombshell, someone else Xander cares deeply about is suffering because of Xander's past activities. Will the team have his back on this excursion.....? Will he find the nut job that wants Xander to suffer even more loss.. Of course he will, and them someone will pay the ultimate price for their stupidity.
June 9, 2017
King's Ransom is a high-octane thrill ride. Starting from a plot that is kept fairly simple the author has crafted high quality story line full of action with several twists and turns that keep increasing the tension throughout.
This novel is populated with strong and believable characters, professionals that keep a cool head and set about a task, no matter the personal cost, where more than just lives are at stake. And in spite of them being hard-nosed skilled operatives there still is a very human dimension to them all. As the action unfolds the team learns that the stakes keep getting increased, well past the personal mission Xander Kings set out for.
The whole book has a very strong narrative that grabs your attention right from the start and never lets go. There is quite a bit of violence, but all of it is appropriate and within context.
This novel is populated with strong and believable characters, professionals that keep a cool head and set about a task, no matter the personal cost, where more than just lives are at stake. And in spite of them being hard-nosed skilled operatives there still is a very human dimension to them all. As the action unfolds the team learns that the stakes keep getting increased, well past the personal mission Xander Kings set out for.
The whole book has a very strong narrative that grabs your attention right from the start and never lets go. There is quite a bit of violence, but all of it is appropriate and within context.
July 18, 2020
Definitely page turning suspense, but at times, I thought the plot dragged on as if the author had a page count to fulfill and hadn't gotten there yet and so had to put in yet another obstacle.
I have not read the other books in this series or in the prequel series. I see one other reviewer states this is the final book in the series--I suspect these characters may appear in another story or series because of the many unanswered questions at the end of the book.
I was a bit disappointed that the book starts with Sarah and Xander on the morning after. I had to wonder why Sarah slept with him when she apparently knew that he loved Natalie--even if Natalie was supposedly out of the picture to protect her (supposedly anyway).
Not knowing the history of the characters made it a bit hard to figure out why they all are so loyal to Xander. There are some previous incidents referenced in this book that are not fully explained. It will not stop your enjoyment of the book if you haven't read the previous ones in the series, but you might understand more if you do read the books in order.
So, the unanswered questions:
*Will Xander really be able to stick to his decision to not be part of the new team that's been given approval? (My guess is no--but whether he goes back to what he does or only intervenes when someone he cares about is in deep danger is another question to be answered.)
*Will Xander and Natalie end up together?
*Will Kyle and Sarah end up together? There's interest. Will it spark?
I have not read the other books in this series or in the prequel series. I see one other reviewer states this is the final book in the series--I suspect these characters may appear in another story or series because of the many unanswered questions at the end of the book.
I was a bit disappointed that the book starts with Sarah and Xander on the morning after. I had to wonder why Sarah slept with him when she apparently knew that he loved Natalie--even if Natalie was supposedly out of the picture to protect her (supposedly anyway).
Not knowing the history of the characters made it a bit hard to figure out why they all are so loyal to Xander. There are some previous incidents referenced in this book that are not fully explained. It will not stop your enjoyment of the book if you haven't read the previous ones in the series, but you might understand more if you do read the books in order.
So, the unanswered questions:
*Will Xander really be able to stick to his decision to not be part of the new team that's been given approval? (My guess is no--but whether he goes back to what he does or only intervenes when someone he cares about is in deep danger is another question to be answered.)
*Will Xander and Natalie end up together?
*Will Kyle and Sarah end up together? There's interest. Will it spark?
December 27, 2017
Excellent Action Thriller. This is a fabulous story that had me hooked from the beginning. Bradley Wright certainly know how to write an entertaining story that not only has a great plot, but also has a very diverse and interesting range of characters. Xander King will definitely be a character worth following.
Natalie Rockwell’s life was turned upside down when she was snatched out of her hotel room by three masked men in the early hours of the morning. She had no idea it was the direct result of being friends with Xander King. There were people out there wanting revenge for things Xander had done. These people made sure they passed onto Xander in a not so subtle way, that they had taken Natalie. He certainly didn’t waste any time in getting himself to her last know location in Paris, to try and find her. With the help of this friends and the CIA, he’s doing everything he can to find her with the deadline he’s been given. They aren’t aware that these men involved have other much bigger plans to hurt America. They may have underestimated just how good Xander really is, and he’s not the sort of man to give up without one hell of a fight. The story moves along at a good pace, and there is always plenty of interesting things happening. This is an exciting adrenaline filled adventure, and it is definitely worth a read.
Natalie Rockwell’s life was turned upside down when she was snatched out of her hotel room by three masked men in the early hours of the morning. She had no idea it was the direct result of being friends with Xander King. There were people out there wanting revenge for things Xander had done. These people made sure they passed onto Xander in a not so subtle way, that they had taken Natalie. He certainly didn’t waste any time in getting himself to her last know location in Paris, to try and find her. With the help of this friends and the CIA, he’s doing everything he can to find her with the deadline he’s been given. They aren’t aware that these men involved have other much bigger plans to hurt America. They may have underestimated just how good Xander really is, and he’s not the sort of man to give up without one hell of a fight. The story moves along at a good pace, and there is always plenty of interesting things happening. This is an exciting adrenaline filled adventure, and it is definitely worth a read.
September 16, 2018
Bradley Wright brings the consequences of Xander King's chosen profession into painful clarity with his third novel in the action-adventure series, "King's Ransom." Teams with ill intent invade his home, destroy his property and ruin any sense of contentment King could still maintain. The antagonist is identified early on and Wright gives him dimension and motive. This time it's personal. King did this guy wrong, and he wants the operative to suffer in blatant style, broadcast clandestinely across the globe. The object of this revenge isn't just King but those he cares for, specifically the actress he fell in love with. And Wright builds suspenseful subplots with Sam and other members of his team that are as pulse accelerating as the main thread. Perhaps moreso. King's added to his crew, and they're professionals and deal with everything far differently than King would. In other words, he keeps the pace breakneck while tossing in extra adventures such as the president's not-so-security-minded daughter. Through it all, King develops depth. He's not a caricature. He's got failings. He knows it. But he adapts. He learns. And so does the reader. The writing is clear, crisp and always with a nod to the next scene.
June 2, 2017
Kings Ransom. Bradley Wright
Someone has killed Sanders beloved horse, they have also kidnapped the love of this life. Xander is torn apart, he doesn't want to involve his team. He flies to Paris to search for his girlfriend, Natalie, a famous actress. America's sweetheart. Someone is looking to avenge his brother's killer who happens to be Xander. The presidents daughter is also kidnapped in Paris. The terrorist and his hired thugs are attacking Xander and America. Revenge. Xander and his elite team are like a vigilante force. They kill terrorists and anyone who tries to harm America. The odds are stacked heavily against them. This is an extraordinary action thriller, a stupendous read!
Someone has killed Sanders beloved horse, they have also kidnapped the love of this life. Xander is torn apart, he doesn't want to involve his team. He flies to Paris to search for his girlfriend, Natalie, a famous actress. America's sweetheart. Someone is looking to avenge his brother's killer who happens to be Xander. The presidents daughter is also kidnapped in Paris. The terrorist and his hired thugs are attacking Xander and America. Revenge. Xander and his elite team are like a vigilante force. They kill terrorists and anyone who tries to harm America. The odds are stacked heavily against them. This is an extraordinary action thriller, a stupendous read!
December 10, 2017
Another great Xander King book. Full of action and suspense. This time it starts in Kentucky and ends in Paris. Xander's beloved horse is killed and the woman he loves is kidnapped by a terrorist. If that's not enough action for you throw in the president's daughter getting kidnapped. Xander and his friends to the rescue. Kyle learns to be more of a fighter and Sam shows a little softer side, Sarah is as touch as ever and we learn a bit more about Zhanna. This was a great read. I couldn't put it down. Now anxiously awaiting the next one. Highly recommend this book and this author. He never disappoints.
August 25, 2017
5 Stars all the way!!!!!!!
Well, here I am again. Late at night. Reading Xander King # 3. So hard to put down. I can definitely see where Natalie is in her assessment of their relationship, but hope they can make it work out. The most heartbreaking thing to have happen in the violent course of these books, is the murder of King's Ransom. I am a Great lover of all animals. I really regret this part of these really good books. Bradley Wright you are an amazing writer. Thanks , Amarillo Turtle
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Well, here I am again. Late at night. Reading Xander King # 3. So hard to put down. I can definitely see where Natalie is in her assessment of their relationship, but hope they can make it work out. The most heartbreaking thing to have happen in the violent course of these books, is the murder of King's Ransom. I am a Great lover of all animals. I really regret this part of these really good books. Bradley Wright you are an amazing writer. Thanks , Amarillo Turtle
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December 5, 2017
A thrill ride like no other. Xander and his team....What can I say to describe how they make you laugh, cry and pull you into their inner circle.
With the stakes as high as tbey can be you feel every thrill, every heartbreak, and every moment of fear that all that Xander is may not be enough. When he pulls off the win you still feel so many emotions. Do you want to see him happy ? Or see him come back together with his team ? What is his true happy? I truly hope I get to see him and his team in action again. I am truly invested!
With the stakes as high as tbey can be you feel every thrill, every heartbreak, and every moment of fear that all that Xander is may not be enough. When he pulls off the win you still feel so many emotions. Do you want to see him happy ? Or see him come back together with his team ? What is his true happy? I truly hope I get to see him and his team in action again. I am truly invested!
February 7, 2019
Much better.
Finally the story moves forward and not so much going on circles. Still needs help. I just don't understand why they didn't help this author with his writing. The first to the last book David B. wrote was excellent and every book since keeps you on the edge of your seat. Even his series books. He never goes on circles and his books are way long than this. I think this guy could have been so much better with just a little bit of help. But for the price, free, this one was much better.
Finally the story moves forward and not so much going on circles. Still needs help. I just don't understand why they didn't help this author with his writing. The first to the last book David B. wrote was excellent and every book since keeps you on the edge of your seat. Even his series books. He never goes on circles and his books are way long than this. I think this guy could have been so much better with just a little bit of help. But for the price, free, this one was much better.
March 18, 2021
I enjoyed the way Wright was able to convey the multitude of emotions that Xander was experiencing and the conflicting opinions he had on his life and the danger that follows him. I liked that he considered how his actions were affecting the lives of those he loved and that he ran from away from the people in his life. It thought it reflected who he was and what he was taught to do very well and I enjoyed the character growth that he endured. It was the first time that we as an audience got true insight into how his brain worked.
December 7, 2025
Terrorists have killed Alexander King's prize racehorse and kidnapped his famous actress girlfriend. By the time his team follows him to Paris to save her, they realize there is also a plot to kidnap the president's daughter.
Although the characters are all somewhat cartoonish and the situations are a bit ridiculous, the action is non-stop. I couldn't help but think this series might make an interesting collection of graphic novels. As long as you don't take the whole thing too seriously, it's actually a fun read.
Although the characters are all somewhat cartoonish and the situations are a bit ridiculous, the action is non-stop. I couldn't help but think this series might make an interesting collection of graphic novels. As long as you don't take the whole thing too seriously, it's actually a fun read.
June 10, 2017
Another excellent addition to the Xander King series. Yes, as someone commented on one of my past reviews of a King book, some of the situations are unbelievable, but you are reading fiction and great fiction at that. This fast paced page turner has different twists at each turn and keeps you enthralled from start to finish. Look forward to the series continuing and appreciate that whoever markets the book had me in the targeted Facebook posts that first introduced me to the series.
September 2, 2017
Not the best
These books are a tad unrealistic and violent, really the only reason I gave it three stars was the character of Sam and the evolution between her and Kyle. The whole think with Xander and Natalee seemed forced and almost silly (Sarah and him were far better suited)
I read the whole series and will give the next book a chance (just to find out what happens with Sam and Kyle). But honestly would not recommend to anyone.
These books are a tad unrealistic and violent, really the only reason I gave it three stars was the character of Sam and the evolution between her and Kyle. The whole think with Xander and Natalee seemed forced and almost silly (Sarah and him were far better suited)
I read the whole series and will give the next book a chance (just to find out what happens with Sam and Kyle). But honestly would not recommend to anyone.
June 10, 2017
Great read.
I was so glad to see a new book in the Xander King series. This was so action packed that I just couldn't stop reading it. If you have never read a Bradley Wright novel, you should.
Action packed, great characters coupled with a great story. The hard part is waiting for the next book.
I was so glad to see a new book in the Xander King series. This was so action packed that I just couldn't stop reading it. If you have never read a Bradley Wright novel, you should.
Action packed, great characters coupled with a great story. The hard part is waiting for the next book.
August 10, 2017
Absolutely superb reading
If you enjoy a lot of action suspense and intrigue this is the story to read . All of the characters are lot of action and gun play and suspense. Hopefully Xander won't stop is truly an action figure next will see him in the toy stores great job by the author
r won't stop
If you enjoy a lot of action suspense and intrigue this is the story to read . All of the characters are lot of action and gun play and suspense. Hopefully Xander won't stop is truly an action figure next will see him in the toy stores great job by the author
r won't stop
November 24, 2017
Xander King rules
Although Xander is kind of unrealistic in a "too-good-to-be-true" sort of way, you still root for him and his friends. The books are not as gritty as the Mitch Rapp or Jack Reacher novels, more Dirk Pitt-ish. Definitely a fun, exciting read which I hated putting down. I will read the rest of the series for sure! Keep up the good work!
Although Xander is kind of unrealistic in a "too-good-to-be-true" sort of way, you still root for him and his friends. The books are not as gritty as the Mitch Rapp or Jack Reacher novels, more Dirk Pitt-ish. Definitely a fun, exciting read which I hated putting down. I will read the rest of the series for sure! Keep up the good work!
June 3, 2017
Xander king and crew!
5 star
Great series.
Fantastic development of characters.
Clear action with just the right amount of twists and turns.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
5 star
Great series.
Fantastic development of characters.
Clear action with just the right amount of twists and turns.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
June 10, 2017
What a great lot of books in this series cannot wait for the next adventure with Xander King and his team lots of action and for a change strong ladies in the team as well. Bradley please get busy writing the next book in the series
June 27, 2017
Very good book. Xander King was a man possessed in this book. The ending will definitely make you wonder what is next in the series. Good action and the plot is very good. Also, Bradley Wright is very accessible. If you send him an email or follow him on Facebook he will respond to you.
July 9, 2017
Great Characters, Fast Paced, Gripping Action!
I loved the first two books and eagerly awaited this next chapter in Xanders life. This is just as good if not better than the previous books.
Loved it!
I loved the first two books and eagerly awaited this next chapter in Xanders life. This is just as good if not better than the previous books.
Loved it!
November 9, 2017
I LOVED this series!!! High action....great story! Loved that it is set in Lexington, KY! Was neat to read about places in the story that I know about and have even been to!! Sounds like there's room for another book?? I'm hoping!!!
November 14, 2017
Enjoyed this book from the Xander king box set. A lot of action a real caring man. Who had real friends that will have his back always. Bit upset over the horse. But it was part of the storyline. Will definitely be reading more of Bradley Wright
December 22, 2017
Another great installment
Enjoyed this series and this book. Very action packed with a good story. Really liked all of the characters as the author did an excellent job at character development.
Enjoyed this series and this book. Very action packed with a good story. Really liked all of the characters as the author did an excellent job at character development.
February 13, 2018
What a fun read! Well written, good storyline, great character development - but more than that - this was just a joy to read. Talk about entertaining :) If you like Jack Reacher, make way for Xander King. You will love it.
I admit Brad offered the first book for free. Of course, I could not put it down. I instantly bought # 2 and finished that the same day. Books 3 and now 4 I had to buy and I devoured them all.
Great reading and well recommended. Bradley Wright has done a great job with this series. I just wish there was more!
I admit Brad offered the first book for free. Of course, I could not put it down. I instantly bought # 2 and finished that the same day. Books 3 and now 4 I had to buy and I devoured them all.
Great reading and well recommended. Bradley Wright has done a great job with this series. I just wish there was more!
September 17, 2018
They can’t stop being who they are
Crazy I am still reading this series. The personalities of the Xander team pull you in. Talk about a diverse group of battlers, adrenaline junkies.
Crazy I am still reading this series. The personalities of the Xander team pull you in. Talk about a diverse group of battlers, adrenaline junkies.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews