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Everything has a price – including living, breathing human flesh…

Journalist Kate O’Sullivan investigates the murder of two young Brits on a paradise island – unaware The Hunter, a renegade CIA agent turned serial killer, is obsessed with her. While working with the local police chief she unwittingly crosses two billionaires – men who make a fortune enslaving women just like her…

Inspired by actual events.

Another rapid-fire crime thriller from this author – a cracking page turner that will have you breathless by the time you reach the end!

This thrilling second installment in The Hack Trilogy can be read as a stand alone tale, but why not check out the riveting rapid-fire first volume, The Hack, while you're here? This series of gritty, fast-paced international crime thrillers features ex-CIA operative 'The Hunter' and the woman he desires, investigative journalist Kate O'Sullivan. Chief Lee, an incorruptible and relentless investigator with the Royal Thai Police, also plays a large part in both of the first two novels.

Trigger warning:

Frankly, if you need a trigger warning then it's probably best to look for a different novel.

"Patching goes where other authors fear to tread."

Contains 'hard-hitting realism' that some readers may find disturbing.

252 pages, Paperback

Published October 12, 2017

97 people are currently reading
433 people want to read

About the author

Will Patching

26 books151 followers
Will Patching's approach to writing

Will writes gritty crime stories that mix murder mystery, psychological suspense and intense thrills while offering unique insights into the darker side of human nature. His ‘pull no punches’ style and sparse but often brutal descriptive passages will not suit all readers, so if you are into cozy mysteries you might want to look elsewhere!

With complex plots and rounded characters, Will’s novels are necessarily longer than average, usually well over 100,000 words, so these are definitely stories designed for readers who like to really get their teeth into a good yarn!

Now considered something of an expert on psychopaths, thanks to his extensive research and personal experience of people with this personality disorder, Will set up a popular website to help lay readers understand these destructive individuals and why their existence is so important to society in general. Visit the site here.

Will’s writing draws heavily on this expertise but his novels are designed to entertain rather than educate – though many readers appreciate both aspects of his writing. He is currently working on completing two trilogies, though each novel is a self-contained story.

The first novel in each trilogy, Remorseless and The Hack, are already published, with the sequels due in late 2016 and early 2017 respectively. The third and final instalments are expected by the end of 2017.

Personal background:

Will Patching was born and raised in ‘Sarf Lunnon’, Engerland, or at least, that’s how he pronounces it! Hence, many scenes from his novels are situated in London, the surrounding suburbs and other parts of southeast England, though they also span as far afield as Thailand and the USA.

His approach to writing is to hit the reader with hard truths about the world we live in, and his mysteries, thrillers, and suspense novels are designed to get your pulse pounding. One male reader decided he needed to check his door locks late one night while reading Remorseless and subsequently commented on social media:

‘Seriously scary!’

Will’s eclectic professional experience – from his teenage role as a ‘gardener’ weeding sewage treatment filter beds, through flying a Hawk jet very fast, very low and very dangerously before the RAF realised and booted him out, then attending Harvard on a course for potential CEOs, largely thanks to the Peter Principle of promotion, and more recently, to building his dream, a charter yacht that sank in SE Asian waters – all have led to a rich and varied life, often reflected in his writing.

If you would like to know more about this indie author you might like to join Will’s Readers Group. You’ll also gain exclusive access to novel backstories, author insights, prize draws and more, including notification whenever a new novel is released. Head to this webpage for more info!

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5 stars
103 (65%)
4 stars
40 (25%)
3 stars
12 (7%)
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3 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Linda Strong.
3,878 reviews1,712 followers
October 16, 2017

The Hunter is a rogue CIA Agent turned serial killer who wants to retire. His motive to put his past behind him is journalist Kate O'Sullivan .. the woman he is obsessed with. She, on the other hand, although pregnant by Hunter, wants nothing to do with him.

When a couple are brutally murdered in Thailand, Kate's newspaper sends her to investigate. What she runs into are rich and powerful men, human traffickers, who seem to be evil personified. They have their eyes on her .. wouldn't she be a valued prize as a sex slave?

This story could be found in today's headline news. Human trafficking is still very prevalent in parts of the world. This story highlights that fact.

It's a fast-paced book, no down time, from start to finish. The subject is handled very well, although for some this may be a trigger. If so, I would recommend avoiding this one.

The author has a definite way with words and his descriptive powers lift the words off the paper to become a movie in the reader's head. The characters are believable; even the secondary supporting characters are very credible.

This is the second installment in this series and I would highly recommend reading them in order.

Many thanks to the author for the advance digital copy of this exciting book. Opinions expressed here are unsolicited, unbiased, and entirely my own.
Profile Image for The Cats’ Mother.
2,349 reviews193 followers
June 14, 2022
The Hunter is the second book in the Hunter/O’Sullivan Adventure trilogy about a CIA agent turned vigilante and the British journalist he’s fallen in love with. I read The Hack about six months ago, and enjoyed it so much I bought the box set. While you do get some recap, I would recommend reading these in order for it all to make sense. I didn’t like this one quite as much, but it’s still a riveting read. Please note this review contains minor spoilers for the first book.

Set a couple of weeks after the events of The Hack, this has Kate O’Sullivan, mourning the death of her brother, being persuaded to travel back to Thailand to investigate the murder of two British backpackers on the holiday island of Koh Kaprong. The authorities appear to have swept the inconvenient deaths under the carpet, but the girl’s mother is convinced the son of a wealthy businessman is responsible. Doug Hunter also sets off for Thailand, desperate to win Kate back after she discovered what he was, with a capable new partner and mysterious and well connected employer. And Chief Lee is ordered to the same island, ostensibly to check out the investigation, but soon learns that corruption there is rife and nobody wants him to discover the truth.

This was another exciting action thriller covering some dark areas, including human trafficking, rape and brutal murder, and there’s a moderate amount of gore, but the really nasty parts are referred to but not described. It did take quite a while to get going - we’re a third in before Hunter unleashes his deadly skills, but he certainly makes up for it in the last third. I don’t particularly like it when heroes spend too much of a book on the back foot, being captured and beaten up, or when really terrible things happen to nice people, even if the point is to make the eventual revenge all the more righteous.

The story is told for various POVs - I was happy to see Chief Lee back in a bigger role, the brave, honest and honourable policeman and his new sidekick were my favourite characters, although cheeky Chagos, who’s rather like a Latina Candy McClure (from the Orphan X books) definitely grew on me. Neither Hunter or Kate are particularly likeable - he has no sense of humour or much of a moral code, and she’s totally stupid, but I’m still looking forward to finding out what they get up to next. 4.5 rounded down - I can’t explain why because spoilers!

Profile Image for Don Gerstein.
758 reviews99 followers
October 12, 2017
What drives people to be coldblooded and evil? “The Hunter” investigates the “other” psychopaths, masquerading as leaders of corporations and countries, taking control of people and their lives without a moment’s hesitation while ignoring the conscience they long ago abandoned as unnecessary. And anyone who gets in their way is less than expendable.

Once again, Will Patching leads us into places where most never go, tapping into humanity’s underbelly to expose the ugliness. Characters from the first book are reintroduced, and the author handles them deftly, telling the story through their eyes and conversations. Dialogue between characters is one of Patching’s strengths, and he demonstrates this throughout the book.

This is the second story in the series, and it can be read as a standalone. The author provides enough of the back story, allowing new readers to clearly understand the different character motivations. The tale moves quickly, helped by the point of view being shared by multiple people. I found this kept the story from becoming stale, with the blend of action and suspense proving to be a solid mix. Toss in a crime that is a huge problem in the world today and you’ve got yourself a compelling read. Five stars.

My thanks to the author for an ARC.
Profile Image for Barbara Tsipouras.
Author 1 book38 followers
October 10, 2017
Yes, this book is as explosive as dynamite! All his books are full of action, but this one tops them all. It left me breathless.
Hunter is a dangerous but fascinating man. Kate is a journalist seeking the truth investigating on an island in Thailand where slavery and human trafficking thrive and billionaires act like they own the world.
Will Patching is without exaggeration one of the best authors I know.
His writing skills are exceptional, his novels have psychological depth and always bring in some mostly unknown well-researched facts and are incredibly suspenseful.
Yes, it's a novel and the fruit of Will's unstoppable imagination, but the disturbing thing about this novel is that these things happen in the world we live in. There still is slavery and humans are sold like objects. I highly recommend visiting Will Patching's blog thehacknovel to learn more about the inspiration for this story.
Profile Image for Kath Middleton.
Author 23 books158 followers
May 26, 2018
Put together an investigative journalist and an ex-CIA agent with a vigilante attitude and you have a great premise for a thriller. The author can make you care about characters you suspect you wouldn't like in real life. A serial killer is bad but some of the ruthless and grossly rich people he’s up against are worse. This is a thrill a minute and a worthy follow up to The Hack. I think it could be read as a stand-alone but these books are so good that I read them back to back. Great writing and a brilliant story.
12.7k reviews191 followers
October 8, 2017
A journalist, Kate is investigating a murder. She doesn’t know that the CIA detective turned serial killer is after her. A chair gripping read that you can’t put down until you’re finished. Loved it
Profile Image for Neil Barbour.
1 review
October 11, 2017
Yet again Will Patching delivers. Fast paced and action packed.
Great to get reaquainted with Kate and the Hunter, alongside Chief Lee. Terrifying to realise it's inspired by real events.
Looking forward to book 3 in the series
372 reviews3 followers
February 23, 2018
Hand-hitting international thriller focussed on the underbelly of the sex trade

The Hunter follows the events of The Hack by a week or two. Reading The Hack first should be a priority. Especially given that a third novel (trilogy) is due shortly.
Once again Kate O’Sullivan (perky journalist) and “Hunter” (CIA think he is dead, and upon learning that this not so, want to make him dead.) And, like The Hack, there is a central theme of how the rich and entitled appear to be free to abuse adults and children as sexual objects and working slaves.
This is not another version of The Hack. It has a plot (mostly taking place in Thailand) that occasionally slows to a jog, but often transitions almost too fast to follow as the danger, action, and combat ratchet up to Mach One. The story is well-researched and should scare the crap out of many readers. It was a very good international thriller, the setting feeling realistic, and satisfyingly unpredictable by times.
If you liked this, check out Will Patching’s “Remorseless”, “Mutilated”, and “Gaslighting”, another trilogy with no connection to The Hack / The Hunter series. For another UK independent writer / publisher who writes CSI thrillers (of equally high quality) based on his personal experience as a CSI, give Andrew Barrett a chance.
4,011 reviews15 followers
October 28, 2017
" Like little boys in a playground."
Two cousins who had just escaped from slavery are arrested for the brutal rape and murder of a young British couple and sent away for trial. No investigations had been made. The highly respected senior police officer from the Royal Thai police, Major General Lee, is sent, unwillingly, into the paradise-like area run almost like a personal fiefdom by the very wealthy Sir Michael McMurdoch, to ensure that no one questions the arrests. But Lee doesn't work like that: he won't be bullied or bribed and starts to make serious enemies. But others are coming to his new jurisdiction who will be making even bigger waves. And one is the reporter, Kate O'Sullivan, whose younger and brilliant hacker brother had been killed shortly before. The same Kate with whom the Hunter has fallen in love.

This is a fast paced story of corruption and violence hidden behind tourist sunshine and luxury. The most terrifying aspect is that it also feels real. Well written with good characterisations, it is a very thrilling read.
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Profile Image for Luc.
44 reviews
October 20, 2017
Will Patching has once again delivered a superb view of what humanity has on offer, such as murder, rape, slavery, human trafficking and organ harvesting, corruption, arson, theft and a few more niceties. On the other hand there is the journalist determined to expose the evil from both governmental and corporate entities, a few incorruptible policemen and a murderer with a heart. So not all is doom and gloom.

As before the fiction of Will Patching is based on what is reality and this makes this novel all the more poignant. The Hunter is an action packed, full speed novel, where we get to meet most of the characters from the first part of the series. All characters, even the minor ones, have real depth and credibility about them giving the story a strong foundation on which the action driven plot builds to become a great and very human story that does not have a happy ending for everyone.
162 reviews2 followers
January 10, 2019
This international thriller artfully weaves twists and turns in a skillfully written plot. The characters are beautifully crafted. Captures reader at the start, keeps the reader locked all the way to middle and then shoots the reader to an explosive ending!! Addresses the evil people in the world who commit such horrible atrocities and who have the power at their disposal to cover it all up. Well, until that is a journalist investigating a story, and a rogue CIA agent cross paths. This book is exactly as it is advertised..”PULSE POUNDING!!”. Will Patching at his best, in The Hunter, although each book Mr Patching writes is going to ALWAYS be his best as he outdoes himself in every book. I can HIGHLY recommend The Hunter. I warn you though, allow time because you will NOT want to put this one down.
Profile Image for Mary C Platter.
33 reviews
November 19, 2017
Hunter's Story.

Hunter is the main character in this book. He and his gorgeous woman friend partner up to investigate a man and his son who live on an island like a King and Prince. This is where Kate's brother was killed. The island is known for a vacation stop for rich and famous. Hunter is to get proof of reported illegal gambling, collection of money from small businesses safety. He knows he loves Kate and wants to see her, not aware she is pregnant with his baby. Will Patching write with such description that you not only read the words, but see the action as well. This book was slow starting, then it got hold of you and wouldn't let go until reaching the end.
Profile Image for Danita.
236 reviews3 followers
May 30, 2018
While this book didn't hook me in as much as the first one, it was still a great read. The book mostly takes place on a fictional Thai island and brings back several characters that were in the first book. What begins as a murder investigation on a paradise island quickly starts to reveal corruption and sinister crimes where money is valued more than lives. Many of the themes in this book are based on actual issues in our world today. The book is fast-paced, hard to put down, and well researched. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
1,062 reviews19 followers
March 13, 2019
from the first line to the last page. However, the storyline is about rather dark and disturbing subjects, sex trade and trafficing of both males and females, as well as the highest levels of corruption, so the reader should beware. The characters are believable and identifiable, and the reader can understand and feel what they are going through as they each try to reach their own objectives. It of course, also sets up the next and final book in the series with a HFN ending. This is a voluntary review of a copy of this book from the author.
Profile Image for Julian White.
1,719 reviews8 followers
May 14, 2018
A very readable sequel to the first book (The Hack) - follows on almost immediately from that and sees Kate returning to Thailand to follow the brutal kidnap, rape and murder of two British tourists.

The author manages to turn the most gruesome crimes into page-turningly excellent stories - perhaps because they are founded upon actual events. Whatever the reason he is a writer to follow (and the third book in the trilogy is also available now!)
73 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2018
Will Patching at his best!

Great second book in another of this authors trilogies! Want to find out about this man called Hunter, pick up "The Hack", then follow it with this book. Cleverly crafted, skillfully written, if you like books with characters you can believe, read these books.
132 reviews
December 26, 2017
Gripping

A really entertaining read. Having met the two main characters before I was intrigued to see what they got up to in this latest episode and was not disappointed. The introduction of Chargos into the frame is just another exciting prospect, can't wait for the next installment.
206 reviews7 followers
November 5, 2018
Book 2 of this series. And, it is as compelling as #1.

But, the subject is enslaved women...another touchy subject.

Will Patching tells us like it is, and then some. Another one you think about as you go about your daily life, til you get another chance to sit down and read this compelling story.

I'm looking forward to #3.
Profile Image for Michael.
576 reviews8 followers
November 4, 2017
Good story, but the execution could improve!

While I enjoyed the plot and the author tackling the issues he addressed, I really wish the author would stop using so much British slang! It makes it very difficult for non-British readers to follow along and grasp his meaning.
Profile Image for Art Wilson.
36 reviews
November 12, 2017
Fantastic!

Will Patching has done it again, with engaging characters, superb writing, and a thrilling story motivated by real-world ills. I'm anxiously awaiting the third book in the series - every one of his books has been a winner.
776 reviews2 followers
June 9, 2018
This series started great and is getting better and better. Doug is one hell of a guy. If you like thrillers with lots of action then this is the trilogy for you. On to book three. Highly recommended must read.
78 reviews
August 30, 2018
Thought provoking action all the way.

Another great story from Will. Truth and fiction nicely coming together for a very entertaining read . Lots of girl power and action to keep you wanting more. I'm off to find the next book.
Profile Image for Annemarie .
972 reviews22 followers
November 1, 2018
A Riveting Read

Once again a riveting read from the pen of Will Patching. I can't wait for the next book in The Hack Trilogy. Happy reading. Annemarie

I received my copy of this book as an ARC from the Author and have chosen to leave a review.
Profile Image for Kenn Goslin.
822 reviews7 followers
February 19, 2019
How numb do you have to be before you can "snap!" Out of it! !!!

Doug is still alive and at large...or is he???? Kate is still numb following Johnmy's death and burial, but wait ... Is it a C.I.A. plot???
21 reviews
February 17, 2020
Gripping from beginning to end

The Hack was excellent and this one is even better. With suitable superhero like characters the plot races along to a fiery and explosive finale. I look forward to The Hangmanf
32 reviews
October 31, 2017
fantastic thriller from a man who knows how to keep us on the edge throughout the whole story. I won't add any spoilers etc but it is a great story told extremely well and you'll enjoy it I am sure.
Profile Image for david carlile.
230 reviews3 followers
January 30, 2018
Brilliant

Couldn't put this book down and didn't want to not one dull moment from start to the excellent ending can't wait for the next one
312 reviews
March 18, 2018
The hunter

Another fab story by Mr Patching this time I felt he focused more on story than characters,
Its different also as he keeps it real can't wait to read the 3rd book
Profile Image for Gayleen.
12 reviews
June 4, 2018
Good read, amazing to realise most of the horrific details have fact as inspiration
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews

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