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Joe Johnson #3
Bandit Country
A trail of high-profile sniper victims across Northern Ireland. Rising tension over the US president’s imminent visit. And the on-going bloody conflict driven by republican terrorists.
Ex-CIA war crimes investigator Joe Johnson quickly realizes there’s much more to it after he’s called to Belfast by a man who claims to be worried about the impact on his business of a long series of terrorist bombs and shootings.
The sniper’s body count rises, but with his motive remaining a mystery, fears mount as the president and UK prime minister’s visit for a G8 world summit draws nearer.
Eventually, Johnson and his ex-MI6 colleague Jayne Robinson come to believe that the key lies in files, documents and secrets from nearly thirty years ago that certain high-flying public figures would rather remained unread.
Bandit Country—the third book in the Joe Johnson series—dives into the murky depths of historic conflicts between British security forces and the IRA, as well as the illegal US-based fundraising and weapons smuggling operations that armed the terrorists.
Meet Joe Johnson today and discover how he uncovers hidden truths from the past in an effort to prevent another devastating crime happening now.
Ex-CIA war crimes investigator Joe Johnson quickly realizes there’s much more to it after he’s called to Belfast by a man who claims to be worried about the impact on his business of a long series of terrorist bombs and shootings.
The sniper’s body count rises, but with his motive remaining a mystery, fears mount as the president and UK prime minister’s visit for a G8 world summit draws nearer.
Eventually, Johnson and his ex-MI6 colleague Jayne Robinson come to believe that the key lies in files, documents and secrets from nearly thirty years ago that certain high-flying public figures would rather remained unread.
Bandit Country—the third book in the Joe Johnson series—dives into the murky depths of historic conflicts between British security forces and the IRA, as well as the illegal US-based fundraising and weapons smuggling operations that armed the terrorists.
Meet Joe Johnson today and discover how he uncovers hidden truths from the past in an effort to prevent another devastating crime happening now.
- GenresFiction
480 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2018
1013 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Turpin
13 books126 followersAndrew is a former journalist who has always had a love of writing and a passion for reading good thrillers. Now he has finally put the two interests together.
His first book in the Joe Johnson thriller series, The Last Nazi, was published in August 2017, and the second, The Old Bridge, in January 2018. The third, Bandit Country, followed in February 2018. In January 2019 the fourth, Stalin's Final Sting, was published along with a prequel to the series, entitled The Afghan. Book #5 in the series, The Nazi's Son, appeared in November 2019, followed by book 6, The Black Sea, published in May 2020.
The themes behind these thrillers also pull together some of Andrew’s other interests, particularly history, world news, and travel. They explore the ways in which events and human behaviors deep into the past continue to impact on modern society, politics and business.
All of Andrew's books draw strongly on these themes. They feature Joe Johnson, an ex-CIA officer and former U.S. Nazi hunter with the Office of Special Investigations, part of the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.
Johnson has a passion for justice and a drive to investigate unsolved war crimes in different parts of the world.
Andrew studied history at Loughborough University and worked for many years as a business and financial journalist before becoming a corporate and financial communications adviser with several large energy companies.
He originally came from Grantham, Lincolnshire, and lives with his family in St. Albans in Hertfordshire, U.K.
His first book in the Joe Johnson thriller series, The Last Nazi, was published in August 2017, and the second, The Old Bridge, in January 2018. The third, Bandit Country, followed in February 2018. In January 2019 the fourth, Stalin's Final Sting, was published along with a prequel to the series, entitled The Afghan. Book #5 in the series, The Nazi's Son, appeared in November 2019, followed by book 6, The Black Sea, published in May 2020.
The themes behind these thrillers also pull together some of Andrew’s other interests, particularly history, world news, and travel. They explore the ways in which events and human behaviors deep into the past continue to impact on modern society, politics and business.
All of Andrew's books draw strongly on these themes. They feature Joe Johnson, an ex-CIA officer and former U.S. Nazi hunter with the Office of Special Investigations, part of the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.
Johnson has a passion for justice and a drive to investigate unsolved war crimes in different parts of the world.
Andrew studied history at Loughborough University and worked for many years as a business and financial journalist before becoming a corporate and financial communications adviser with several large energy companies.
He originally came from Grantham, Lincolnshire, and lives with his family in St. Albans in Hertfordshire, U.K.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 14, 2018
The Joe Johnson series keeps getting better but there is still some scope for improvement
Bandit Country has an interesting setting - one which has dropped out of the public eye for sometime. That is one of the things that keeps this series alive i.e. the change of scenery. I liked the detective work as well as the cat and mouse game which the 'bad' guy plays with Joe Johnson, which reminded me of the Day of the Jackal in a lot of ways.
I figured out the motivations of the protagonists early into the book - it is not that tough since it is literally telegraphed in the beginning. I wish it weren't so since this would have been an additional oomph towards the end of the book.
While Bandit Country is probably the best book in the series, so far, I could not give it 4 stars since there are still gripes about character motivations as well as some 'stupid' plot points that still persist. But, it is still quite readable.
Bandit Country has an interesting setting - one which has dropped out of the public eye for sometime. That is one of the things that keeps this series alive i.e. the change of scenery. I liked the detective work as well as the cat and mouse game which the 'bad' guy plays with Joe Johnson, which reminded me of the Day of the Jackal in a lot of ways.
I figured out the motivations of the protagonists early into the book - it is not that tough since it is literally telegraphed in the beginning. I wish it weren't so since this would have been an additional oomph towards the end of the book.
While Bandit Country is probably the best book in the series, so far, I could not give it 4 stars since there are still gripes about character motivations as well as some 'stupid' plot points that still persist. But, it is still quite readable.
March 28, 2018
Joe Johnson is back! This time in Northern Ireland. He has a freelance job offer that has connections to troubles in Northern Ireland from the 1980’s. Now 2013, the political stage has changed, Sinn Fein have political positions and there is a peace agreement in place. Not all feel hopeful about the future and grassroots dissidents still make their feelings known with bombings and shootings, this affects business and is the reason why Joe has been called in.
I am a big fan of this series with Joe as the main protagonist, an ex-CIA war crimes investigator. This book feels a little bit different to the others, a slight step away from the war crimes investigations with more emphasis on events at the time of its setting in 2013, there are however many references to 1984, as well as other decades that are just as important. Joe is soon in the thick of the action, his experiences, expertise and knowledge are all assets that he will need.
It is a story that covers many aspects of IRA, The Real IRA, Sinn Fein and also the thoughts and feelings of the people on the streets. The mistrust, the distrust and the fear to hope things will actually change for the best as well as showing the frustrations of the dissidents at grass root level.
As the story moves forward the inclusion of arms shipments, smuggling and also US backers for the cause make an appearance as Joe tries to learn of an active sniper. This along with the added extra details that the author includes adds that believable factor I like in a story. Things like how fast the helicopter flies rather than it just flying past, or why two guns of the same model have slight differences. These extras make me think that the author knows his stuff and done the research. The one thing I always enjoy with this authors work is the addition information he includes at the end of the story, where he found his sources, what books or sites he used. A great place for further reading and a great insight into the background of the book.
You could read this as a stand alone, it would work well I think, but I would definitely recommend reading the other books in the series. They give a great deal of information about Joe and importantly show his tenacious character.
This is a fast paced, action packed, thriller. The author has created a balance of fact and fiction backed up with a huge amount of research and is the backbone of this book, add to that an amazing story that has been fictionally wrapped around events and you have a convincing read. A Highly Recommended read from me.
I am a big fan of this series with Joe as the main protagonist, an ex-CIA war crimes investigator. This book feels a little bit different to the others, a slight step away from the war crimes investigations with more emphasis on events at the time of its setting in 2013, there are however many references to 1984, as well as other decades that are just as important. Joe is soon in the thick of the action, his experiences, expertise and knowledge are all assets that he will need.
It is a story that covers many aspects of IRA, The Real IRA, Sinn Fein and also the thoughts and feelings of the people on the streets. The mistrust, the distrust and the fear to hope things will actually change for the best as well as showing the frustrations of the dissidents at grass root level.
As the story moves forward the inclusion of arms shipments, smuggling and also US backers for the cause make an appearance as Joe tries to learn of an active sniper. This along with the added extra details that the author includes adds that believable factor I like in a story. Things like how fast the helicopter flies rather than it just flying past, or why two guns of the same model have slight differences. These extras make me think that the author knows his stuff and done the research. The one thing I always enjoy with this authors work is the addition information he includes at the end of the story, where he found his sources, what books or sites he used. A great place for further reading and a great insight into the background of the book.
You could read this as a stand alone, it would work well I think, but I would definitely recommend reading the other books in the series. They give a great deal of information about Joe and importantly show his tenacious character.
This is a fast paced, action packed, thriller. The author has created a balance of fact and fiction backed up with a huge amount of research and is the backbone of this book, add to that an amazing story that has been fictionally wrapped around events and you have a convincing read. A Highly Recommended read from me.
February 6, 2018
Turpin writes the books I love to read in a style that is quite comfortable. It holds my attention and interest and offers me knowledge. The third Joe Johnson book covers an assignment into Northern Ireland where the left over issues from the "Troubles" still create issues among families on both sides. Joe provides strong moral compass for investigation of a series of sniper killings by a radical. As is typical in Turpin's stories, right and wrong are very difficult to determine. The story begins with elements of a procedural, but evolves into a cat and mouse race as the pace of killings accelerates. This book shines a light on the elements of human nature that continue to cause problems through history. It is well worth reading.
February 15, 2018
In a thriller you obviously need your good guys and you need your bad guys. Knowing that the author of Bandit Country is an Englishman, living in England during the time of 'the troubles' and therefore absorbing things the way the English press reported them, you should have no problem knowing who the bad guys in this story will be.
But don’t let that discourage you, in spite of being subjected to very one-sided information at the time, Andrew Turpin has managed to bring an exceptionally balanced approach to the writing of this novel. He has managed remarkably well to avoid falling into the trap of bringing a black and white narrative where one side is all good and one side is all bad. I’m not going to go into detail because that would take away part of the suspense of the various twists he has put into this book.
In the end it gives a lot of food for thought about religious and sectarian intolerance and about how unbalanced authorities are dealing with the various wrongs by their side vs. the wrongs of the other side. It also should make you think about how biased the press are still reporting on the various conflicts around the world, as they cannot possibly have all the fact and know all the background, and most of the time their reporting is to serve a certain purpose (political, religious, commercial, ideological).
Apart from that Bandit Country is a well-written book with a strong storyline, strong characters and a clever finish.
But don’t let that discourage you, in spite of being subjected to very one-sided information at the time, Andrew Turpin has managed to bring an exceptionally balanced approach to the writing of this novel. He has managed remarkably well to avoid falling into the trap of bringing a black and white narrative where one side is all good and one side is all bad. I’m not going to go into detail because that would take away part of the suspense of the various twists he has put into this book.
In the end it gives a lot of food for thought about religious and sectarian intolerance and about how unbalanced authorities are dealing with the various wrongs by their side vs. the wrongs of the other side. It also should make you think about how biased the press are still reporting on the various conflicts around the world, as they cannot possibly have all the fact and know all the background, and most of the time their reporting is to serve a certain purpose (political, religious, commercial, ideological).
Apart from that Bandit Country is a well-written book with a strong storyline, strong characters and a clever finish.
February 4, 2018
This was a very thought provoking read for me. I kept thinking throughout of the fact that religion is responsible for more violence than just about anything . Also having worked in London 200 yards away from when the IRA exploded a bomb at the London Stock exchange added to the tension and adrenaline rush of this story.
This should not take anything away from the fact that this was another brilliant piece of investigative thriller writing in the guise of the character of Joe Johnson.
Joe, brought over from the States by a Belfast business man gets drawn into the mind of an IRA dissident killer who is a member of the New IRA. This killer has a secret agenda that slowly unfolds and is brought to a monumental climax at the end.
Joe teamed up with an " old flame " ex MI6 operative Jayne.
I am still winding down as I write this but please, this is a must read.
Well done Andrew, another winner.
This should not take anything away from the fact that this was another brilliant piece of investigative thriller writing in the guise of the character of Joe Johnson.
Joe, brought over from the States by a Belfast business man gets drawn into the mind of an IRA dissident killer who is a member of the New IRA. This killer has a secret agenda that slowly unfolds and is brought to a monumental climax at the end.
Joe teamed up with an " old flame " ex MI6 operative Jayne.
I am still winding down as I write this but please, this is a must read.
Well done Andrew, another winner.
February 10, 2018
Andrew Turpin is quickly becoming one of my favorite writers.
This is the third book in Joe Johnson series and each book can be read as a stand-alone.
Andrew has the knack to describe difficult subjects in a manner that makes for easy reading and a smooth flowing story line.
He combines actual historical facts with a fictional story that is presented in a very realistic way.
Here we are dealing with the aftermath of the conflicts between the British security forces and the IRA almost 3 decades after the peace agreements where signed. Proving the emotions on both sides are still running high and people are still willing to take actions that shouldn't be happening.
I received an ARC copy so that I could read and review by the publishing date but I also purchased the book to encourage Andrew to keep these books coming. Andrew is a writer that does a tremendous amount of research on the subject prior to him writing the book and it really shows.
This is the third book in Joe Johnson series and each book can be read as a stand-alone.
Andrew has the knack to describe difficult subjects in a manner that makes for easy reading and a smooth flowing story line.
He combines actual historical facts with a fictional story that is presented in a very realistic way.
Here we are dealing with the aftermath of the conflicts between the British security forces and the IRA almost 3 decades after the peace agreements where signed. Proving the emotions on both sides are still running high and people are still willing to take actions that shouldn't be happening.
I received an ARC copy so that I could read and review by the publishing date but I also purchased the book to encourage Andrew to keep these books coming. Andrew is a writer that does a tremendous amount of research on the subject prior to him writing the book and it really shows.
February 10, 2018
Nail-biting thriller
This is the third in a series of books about Joe Johnson, a war-crimes investigator. Bandit Country has Joe (in Northern Ireland, for this one) trying to locate a notorious Irish terrorist sniper and assist local law enforcement to make an arrest. Great characters to root for or despise. A very sympathetic portrayal of good people caught in the war between Irish “freedom fighters” and British efforts to supress the violence. A skilful balance of highlighting the unresolvable “grey” areas of the conflict.
Joe’s background and methodology are very interesting. And while he carries, for a short time, a firearm, he does not use it.
I had a look at the research sources that Andrew Turpin has used for the three novels, and was astonished by the thoroughness of his background reading. His “The Last Nazi” and “The Old Bridge” are near the top of my current “Must Read” list.
This is the third in a series of books about Joe Johnson, a war-crimes investigator. Bandit Country has Joe (in Northern Ireland, for this one) trying to locate a notorious Irish terrorist sniper and assist local law enforcement to make an arrest. Great characters to root for or despise. A very sympathetic portrayal of good people caught in the war between Irish “freedom fighters” and British efforts to supress the violence. A skilful balance of highlighting the unresolvable “grey” areas of the conflict.
Joe’s background and methodology are very interesting. And while he carries, for a short time, a firearm, he does not use it.
I had a look at the research sources that Andrew Turpin has used for the three novels, and was astonished by the thoroughness of his background reading. His “The Last Nazi” and “The Old Bridge” are near the top of my current “Must Read” list.
February 10, 2018
I am in total awe of the amount of research that Andrew Turpin must do before he writes his books. I have thoroughly enjoyed his other books, but I think that this is my favourite, indeed I think that it is one of the best books by a British author that I have read in the past couple of years.
This book is very evocative for anyone who remembers the 'Troubles' in Ireland, but it is not necessary to know the details of the conflict as Mr. Turpin gives a very detailed but concise history as part of the story, not that this is a dry history, it is a very exciting action thriller, with a great plot about the current hard-line dissidents and their activities. I love the characters that have been created, particularly Joe Johnson, the war crimes investigator who is the central character, and also Dessie Duggan the bullying New IRA group leader.
This book is very evocative for anyone who remembers the 'Troubles' in Ireland, but it is not necessary to know the details of the conflict as Mr. Turpin gives a very detailed but concise history as part of the story, not that this is a dry history, it is a very exciting action thriller, with a great plot about the current hard-line dissidents and their activities. I love the characters that have been created, particularly Joe Johnson, the war crimes investigator who is the central character, and also Dessie Duggan the bullying New IRA group leader.
February 10, 2018
This time Joe Jackson is called to Belfast to investigate the recent rise in sniper attacks. With the G8 coming they need to find this sniper fast. Joe calls on his ex MI6 friend Jayne Robinson. She spent a great deal of time in Belfast during the troubles and still has old contacts there! Just after he arrives on his way to the apartment has to stay in a helicopter with high government officials is shot down right in front of him! As him and Jayne dig in to the investigation the past keep becoming more and more relevant! The clock is ticking down fast to the G8 and more and more bodies are dropping. I don't want to give too much away but this is a fast paced action filled book with plenty of twists and turns. It will keep you on the edge of your seat to the very end. I love this author and this series. I highly recommend this book.
February 10, 2018
Lots of action and who do you trust. A story about crimes by dissident Republicans and corrupt RUC (Royal Ulster Constabulary) officers and later PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland). Also, includes activities of the good guys in these two police services. As an Irish citizen I would have liked to have seen more about criminal unionists. Otherwise I would have scored the book as 5 Stars as the other Joe Johnson novels by the same author. BTW I am Protestant with a Roman Catholic mother and Protestant (Baptist ) father. I am Lutheran by choice, a catholic with a lower case ‘c’ as my mother liked to point out.
February 17, 2023
“The human, living and breathing flotsam and jetsam of the conflict that seemed to have no end.”
My expectations were high going into this third Joe Johnson thriller by Andrew Turpin, and I was not disappointed. One of the things that I love about these books is that, while the reader views the narrative from the perspectives of the main protagonist as well as his various adversaries, the author still manages to keep the bigger picture shrouded in mystery until the very end. It is another dark and masterly escapade. The writing is brilliant, the action is fast-paced, and the historical background is absolutely fascinating.
My expectations were high going into this third Joe Johnson thriller by Andrew Turpin, and I was not disappointed. One of the things that I love about these books is that, while the reader views the narrative from the perspectives of the main protagonist as well as his various adversaries, the author still manages to keep the bigger picture shrouded in mystery until the very end. It is another dark and masterly escapade. The writing is brilliant, the action is fast-paced, and the historical background is absolutely fascinating.
March 21, 2025
My ignorance to the religious conflict in northern Ireland between Catholics and protestants affected how I viewed this book but I'm glad I learner of it because I never in one million years thought that it would create a national crisis and the basis for a good story.
The details surrounding the investigation were succinct and by half way through the book I was thinking, what's this all about?
But Joe Johnson persists in an investigation surrounded by death.
Turpin goes into scrupulous details which is what I enjoy most about his works. While there are details he could add in that would make the story better but that is a matter of creativity one can't expect from anyone.
The succinct description of the sniper making his shot was well defined and I had a great concern that the author would implement the curve of the earth but it was such a great relief that he did not!
If he did I would if ceased reading the book and discarded all books by this author for stimulating such an absurd notion but gladly it seems, he hasn't the time to waste on such novel fallacies and chose to create a much more professional environment.
I like the idea of a vagabond investigator that voluntarily walks situations of into imminent death.
I started with the last nazi and have slowly read a few of his books now.
They aree the kind of books I enjoy remembering rather than reading.
The details surrounding the investigation were succinct and by half way through the book I was thinking, what's this all about?
But Joe Johnson persists in an investigation surrounded by death.
Turpin goes into scrupulous details which is what I enjoy most about his works. While there are details he could add in that would make the story better but that is a matter of creativity one can't expect from anyone.
The succinct description of the sniper making his shot was well defined and I had a great concern that the author would implement the curve of the earth but it was such a great relief that he did not!
If he did I would if ceased reading the book and discarded all books by this author for stimulating such an absurd notion but gladly it seems, he hasn't the time to waste on such novel fallacies and chose to create a much more professional environment.
I like the idea of a vagabond investigator that voluntarily walks situations of into imminent death.
I started with the last nazi and have slowly read a few of his books now.
They aree the kind of books I enjoy remembering rather than reading.
September 28, 2021
This book is the third in the Joe Johnson series. With each book you get another piece of the puzzle that makes up Joe Johnson. He is a character that is deep thinking and caring . He is also brilliant. I love these stories. Each is woven into history. I find it fascinating and so enjoyable to read each of Mr. Turpin’s books. I feel he puts so much time and energy into each story. Each is very entertaining and educational. Each book is a wonderful journey through history with wonderful writing woven together. And the outcome is never expected. I highly recommend all of Mr. Turpin’s books. I look forward to the next in this series.
June 3, 2020
I’m giving this 3.5 almost 4 stars. I really like this series. The main character is likable, intelligent and willing to go the extra mile for the investigations. This was the third official book in the series, and Ive read all this up to this point. This was still a good book, but it was not my favorite. What I didn’t like was that while some of the storyline was from 1984, it read more of a crime/police story/murder investigation than someone researching historic crimes. A good story, but not my favorite in the series.
April 20, 2020
Bandit Country by Andrew Turpin
Joe Johnson is embroiled in Ireland and its troubles. Joe is hired to find a republican sniper who is impeding the Irish reconciliation.
Joe brings his friend, Jayne, the former MI6 agent in to assist him in tracking down a killer. All is not what it seems as motives for both sides of the conflict are called into question.
The plot was good and had enough mystery to keep you reading.
Joe Johnson is embroiled in Ireland and its troubles. Joe is hired to find a republican sniper who is impeding the Irish reconciliation.
Joe brings his friend, Jayne, the former MI6 agent in to assist him in tracking down a killer. All is not what it seems as motives for both sides of the conflict are called into question.
The plot was good and had enough mystery to keep you reading.
October 10, 2022
One of the most interesting books in the Joe Johnson series
I have now read almost all the Joe Johnson and Jayne Robinson books and enjoyed most of them. This one is special because I didn’t know much about the Northern Ireland issue beyond the original IRA. Fascinating undercurrents explained well in this book has considerably enhanced my understanding of the conflict. And of course this duo is worth following in all their adventures.
I have now read almost all the Joe Johnson and Jayne Robinson books and enjoyed most of them. This one is special because I didn’t know much about the Northern Ireland issue beyond the original IRA. Fascinating undercurrents explained well in this book has considerably enhanced my understanding of the conflict. And of course this duo is worth following in all their adventures.
October 3, 2024
We forget so quickly or remember revenge forever
I have become attached to Author Turpin's historical fiction. With this story I am reminded of Irish battles between Catholics and Protestants. I believe a psychopathic killer could emerge out of any nation. Gangs, mobs, cults could organize anywhere. Investigators like Joe and Jayne would be less common, but very necessary for a civil society. Who knows what truth and what danger will emerge in an investigation?
I have become attached to Author Turpin's historical fiction. With this story I am reminded of Irish battles between Catholics and Protestants. I believe a psychopathic killer could emerge out of any nation. Gangs, mobs, cults could organize anywhere. Investigators like Joe and Jayne would be less common, but very necessary for a civil society. Who knows what truth and what danger will emerge in an investigation?
June 24, 2018
Great book!!
I just finished reading all of Mr. Turpin's books and am hoping that he will be writing more. The intricacy of the plots and how they are developed are to me the hallmarks of a great writer. That said, I love the history behind the plot of the story and his comments at the end of the book, as well as resources for further reading. Great job Me Turpin!!
I just finished reading all of Mr. Turpin's books and am hoping that he will be writing more. The intricacy of the plots and how they are developed are to me the hallmarks of a great writer. That said, I love the history behind the plot of the story and his comments at the end of the book, as well as resources for further reading. Great job Me Turpin!!
March 26, 2020
I’m enjoying the characters and change of scenery. The author is very knowledgeable and places the reader into the scene. Joe Johnson has an occasional irritating habit of bumbling into a situation—something his years of experience should have helped him to avoid. He seems a little self-righteous in this book—no spoilers, though.
July 23, 2020
An excellent insight into the lives of those who want to continue with violence to achieve their aims of an all Ireland Republic
I liked the well researched aspect of the geography of Belfast and South Armagh from someone who was born lived and worked in Northern Ireland through the worst days of violence from 1970 to 1983 before moving to England
I liked the well researched aspect of the geography of Belfast and South Armagh from someone who was born lived and worked in Northern Ireland through the worst days of violence from 1970 to 1983 before moving to England
April 1, 2021
Having read almost all of Jack Higgins books which mainly centre on the Troubles in Northern Ireland with the charismatic Sean Dillon and Ferguson, the plot in this book is relatable. Joe and Jayne make a good team although I feel sometimes Joe gets a little careless and lands himself in a soup with Jayne having to rescue him. But I guess this is what makes the story interesting.
February 6, 2022
Third times a charm! Bandit Country is Turpin's third installment of the Joe Johnson series, taking place in 2013 in Northern Ireland. Much like the 2nd "Old Bridge", Turpin isn't shying away from setting his novels within the remnants of sticky, incomprehensible global conflicts. In all fairness, I'm more partial to Joe's partner, Jayne, who I believe has her own series.
October 7, 2022
Thrilling overview of post-settlement Ireland
We’ll-researched and credible, this novel appeals to the lover of historical and current fiction. Turpin weaves the past animosities in Ireland into the simmering, current resentments with a story that is believable and entertaining. A fun and interesting read!
We’ll-researched and credible, this novel appeals to the lover of historical and current fiction. Turpin weaves the past animosities in Ireland into the simmering, current resentments with a story that is believable and entertaining. A fun and interesting read!
January 22, 2023
Great Read
One of the few books I’ve found that has dealt, with the Troubles in the North of Ireland. Everything from the title is well researched. The author deals with it in a evenhanded manner. I think he has at least another book in him on this very complex period in the history of Ireland
One of the few books I’ve found that has dealt, with the Troubles in the North of Ireland. Everything from the title is well researched. The author deals with it in a evenhanded manner. I think he has at least another book in him on this very complex period in the history of Ireland
April 26, 2024
Ireland Divided….Still
Even though the timeline is from 2013, the situation in Ireland now takes on new meaning for me. Mr. Turpin did an excellent job of showing how the struggle affects all the people, families, communities, and businesses. War of any kind, is in the end, useless to wage. Here it is, 2024, and humankind still hasn’t learned that simple lesson. Maybe, like so much else in life, MONEY is the driving force!
Even though the timeline is from 2013, the situation in Ireland now takes on new meaning for me. Mr. Turpin did an excellent job of showing how the struggle affects all the people, families, communities, and businesses. War of any kind, is in the end, useless to wage. Here it is, 2024, and humankind still hasn’t learned that simple lesson. Maybe, like so much else in life, MONEY is the driving force!
Read
June 10, 2024I enjoyed all three in this series. The main character is quite different. He isn't your usual very attractive male. And he seems to blunder into and out of situations. He isn't a self-defense master, and found that very refreshing. I enjoyed the settings, although I wasn't sure that I was in the mood for yet another book set in Northern Ireland. I stuck with it and ended up enjoying the read.
November 10, 2018
I have thoroughly enjoyed the Joe Johnson series. Very clever thrillers complete with twists and turns and packed full of historical info. You learn something without even realising. I could imagine a Cranberries and U2 soundtrack whilst I was reading this one. Loved it.
March 14, 2020
Love these books. I’m hooked. I have learned so much about recent history and also more than I already knew. Andrew Turpin is a great writer and clearly does a great deal of research. Love the Joe Johnson character. Will read all of his books.
March 17, 2021
Joe Johnson in northern Ireland !
An interesting location for Joe and friends with some enlightening historic detail which must have taken a fair amount of research by the author .
An enjoyable and exciting read.
An interesting location for Joe and friends with some enlightening historic detail which must have taken a fair amount of research by the author .
An enjoyable and exciting read.
April 1, 2021
Another great entry in the series
Quite different than the first two in the series, but a great story. Love the continued teaming of Johnson with his friend Jayne. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Quite different than the first two in the series, but a great story. Love the continued teaming of Johnson with his friend Jayne. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews