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Adrian Hell #4
Deadly Intent
The more things change, the more he stays the same!
A couple of years have passed since Pennsylvania, and Adrian is living the quiet life in the small town of Devil's Spring, Texas. He owns a bar, and no one there knows who he used to be. He's retired, and he's happy.
The world is a different place, too. A new president has made radical changes, ushering in a new era of peace and prosperity.
Then, three strangers walk into his bar and ask for Adrian Hell, which starts a chain of events that sees the former assassin pick up his guns once more, to help old friends combat a new enemy. A terrorist organization is plotting an elaborate scheme to hold the world to ransom, and Adrian's found himself caught in the middle.
Against insurmountable odds, and in many people's crosshairs, Adrian reluctantly goes back to doing what he does best. This action epic sees him travel the country, and the world, fighting an impossible enemy, while facing ghosts from his past. Packed with action, drama, and humor, this new Adrian Hell thriller is a must-read!
Book 4 in the bestselling series from the UK's premier thriller writer, James P. Sumner.
A couple of years have passed since Pennsylvania, and Adrian is living the quiet life in the small town of Devil's Spring, Texas. He owns a bar, and no one there knows who he used to be. He's retired, and he's happy.
The world is a different place, too. A new president has made radical changes, ushering in a new era of peace and prosperity.
Then, three strangers walk into his bar and ask for Adrian Hell, which starts a chain of events that sees the former assassin pick up his guns once more, to help old friends combat a new enemy. A terrorist organization is plotting an elaborate scheme to hold the world to ransom, and Adrian's found himself caught in the middle.
Against insurmountable odds, and in many people's crosshairs, Adrian reluctantly goes back to doing what he does best. This action epic sees him travel the country, and the world, fighting an impossible enemy, while facing ghosts from his past. Packed with action, drama, and humor, this new Adrian Hell thriller is a must-read!
Book 4 in the bestselling series from the UK's premier thriller writer, James P. Sumner.
394 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2015
420 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 11, 2019
Too implausable
This was just a little too much over the top of reality and believability. Adrian has been hit in the head so many times that his brain has to be encased in scar tissue. I found myself skipping ahead, bored with the theatrics. Sorry, but no one bounces back immediately from the kinds of injuries he has sustained. This is becoming cartoonish. Running off the cliff, peddling in mid air and going spat, may be fine if you are Wylie Coyote, but in real life that sort of thing doesn't work. Things need to be toned down.
This was just a little too much over the top of reality and believability. Adrian has been hit in the head so many times that his brain has to be encased in scar tissue. I found myself skipping ahead, bored with the theatrics. Sorry, but no one bounces back immediately from the kinds of injuries he has sustained. This is becoming cartoonish. Running off the cliff, peddling in mid air and going spat, may be fine if you are Wylie Coyote, but in real life that sort of thing doesn't work. Things need to be toned down.
April 28, 2023
You Lost Me
I always read series in order. The first 3 Adrian Hell books were rooted in reality. However, starting at the beginning of this novel, Sumner introduces an alternate future which is hard to believe. About chapter 35, the wheels started to come off. Too many miraculous escapes, villains taking time to explain their evil plans, and a manufactured cliffhanger ending. That’s enough of this series for me.
I always read series in order. The first 3 Adrian Hell books were rooted in reality. However, starting at the beginning of this novel, Sumner introduces an alternate future which is hard to believe. About chapter 35, the wheels started to come off. Too many miraculous escapes, villains taking time to explain their evil plans, and a manufactured cliffhanger ending. That’s enough of this series for me.
July 14, 2017
This instalment in the Adrian Hell series is so action-packed and thrilling that you're literally on the edge of your seat while you're reading it. Once I started it I couldn't stop until I'd finished - and then went on to the next! - despite the fact it was gone midnight by then! The writing is excellent and really draws the reader in, keeping you engaged and turning pages until the very dramatic declaration at the very end - which I'm not telling you!
I've loved the Adrian Hell series since I first discovered it, and this book is no exception. The writing is excellent, and the characters really bring the story to life. I highly recommend the books to anyone who likes action, adventure, thrillers or just wants something really engaging to read. I would just caution that they are quite violent, so they're not suitable for young readers, but it's always in context and not overly excessive.
I've loved the Adrian Hell series since I first discovered it, and this book is no exception. The writing is excellent, and the characters really bring the story to life. I highly recommend the books to anyone who likes action, adventure, thrillers or just wants something really engaging to read. I would just caution that they are quite violent, so they're not suitable for young readers, but it's always in context and not overly excessive.
December 21, 2023
Readable book but very unbelievable in my opinion not as good as some of the other Adrian He'll boos I've read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2021
Deadly Intent by James P. Sumner
Remarkable story although feels a little far-fetched. Intense action from start to finish and very interesting. Portrays a scenario where extreme power in one’s hand can wreak havoc on vast segments of world population. This is the first book of this author that I read. I am keen to read his other books.
Remarkable story although feels a little far-fetched. Intense action from start to finish and very interesting. Portrays a scenario where extreme power in one’s hand can wreak havoc on vast segments of world population. This is the first book of this author that I read. I am keen to read his other books.
January 8, 2017
Fast-paced!
This story will keep you flipping pages! There is plenty of action. I would recommend the reader follow the series as written in order to keep track of the flow of the plot.
This story will keep you flipping pages! There is plenty of action. I would recommend the reader follow the series as written in order to keep track of the flow of the plot.
October 9, 2023
If you are looking for something that feels like a blending of the hit TV series 24 with aspects of action taken from a Rambo movie, you will enjoy the action and adventure contained in “Deadly Intent”, which is the fourth audiobook in the Adrian Hell series. The series is brilliantly crafted by James P. Sumner and the audiobook’s narration was superbly performed by Gary Bennett. This team continues to hit the ball out of the park when it comes to new episodes in the series, each one feeling like a new chapter of a hit TV series. There is plenty of violence, loads of technology and people chases that end up touching multiple continents. This story is bigger and more exciting in many ways. If you have enjoyed the pervious tales in the series, this one is for you. If you have never listed to any of the audiobook in the series, I highly recommend them. Each is a stand-along story, so you can jump right in at any time. I can say that the way this story ends, there will be a another and one can only guess how it will go for Adrian.
The story opens with our main character is somewhat retired from his profession as an elite assassin. He is now living in a small town and wanting to settle down with a new love and a dog. However, he finds that when you are as good an assassin as he is, retirement does not last long. Also, when he is the target and the one being framed for wrongdoing, all gloves come off and the fight is on. I found the prologue details welcoming as this helps to set the stage and allows the listener to also get reacquainted with the characters. Much like with a TV series, the author did a good job of providing the “previously on” portion. I did have to say that this was the slowest start of any in this series. But that is not a bad thing. Just be aware that this is more like a smoldering dry Christmas tree that quickly ramps up to a roaring blaze in no time. Society has determined that legalizing both drugs and prostitution would help bring down the country’s debt, but with this comes other issues that need to be addressed.
I did enjoy that Adrian had a deep devotion to both his girlfriend Tori and his dog Sticks. It is good that we can continue to see the emotional side of this very hardened assassin. It has even come to the point where he is looking to settle down and becomes a family man. But this can only last a short period before Adrian is off to save the world from a group of devout terrorists. It is a revenge story which Adrian does not want to get involved, yet there is not much he can do as he is sucker punched and thrown into the ring for a fight. Lucky for him, he still maintains his true and honored best friends, his pair of shinny Berettas, and Josh of course. I always laugh at the many pop culture pokes and references such as when the group Twisted Sister is called out, such nostalgic memories. There is a vast amount of technology and destruction that takes place in this story. Quite a few bodies that need cleaning up after the fact. Overall, it is bigger and more impactful from some of the others in the series.
The audiobook’s narration is as one would expect when you bring on a professional narrator like Gary Bennett to the table. All his narration pieces, which I have listened to, have been exceptional. Characters feel alive, inflection is felt, action is fluid, and the audio is of the highest quality. A strong narrator can elevate a story from good to great, and I can say that I like this duo very much. I do not recall any audio artifacts such as pops, swallows, or background noises while listening. Mr. Bennett’s voice is easy to listen to and is well paced from start to finish.
For parents and younger listeners, this audiobook is intended for more mature listeners. It contains profanity, some adult themes, and some graphic violence that may not be completely appropriate for younger listeners. I would recommend this audiobook and the series for mature listeners only.
In summary, if you have not picked it up from the review, I enjoyed this story quite a bit. It was slower to get rolling, but that allowed the author to ramp up the action from there. The narration was solid and as expected from a professional narrator. Again, based on the end of this story, there are potentially bigger things coming in the next. Keep up the great work you two, and I look forward to the next.
The story opens with our main character is somewhat retired from his profession as an elite assassin. He is now living in a small town and wanting to settle down with a new love and a dog. However, he finds that when you are as good an assassin as he is, retirement does not last long. Also, when he is the target and the one being framed for wrongdoing, all gloves come off and the fight is on. I found the prologue details welcoming as this helps to set the stage and allows the listener to also get reacquainted with the characters. Much like with a TV series, the author did a good job of providing the “previously on” portion. I did have to say that this was the slowest start of any in this series. But that is not a bad thing. Just be aware that this is more like a smoldering dry Christmas tree that quickly ramps up to a roaring blaze in no time. Society has determined that legalizing both drugs and prostitution would help bring down the country’s debt, but with this comes other issues that need to be addressed.
I did enjoy that Adrian had a deep devotion to both his girlfriend Tori and his dog Sticks. It is good that we can continue to see the emotional side of this very hardened assassin. It has even come to the point where he is looking to settle down and becomes a family man. But this can only last a short period before Adrian is off to save the world from a group of devout terrorists. It is a revenge story which Adrian does not want to get involved, yet there is not much he can do as he is sucker punched and thrown into the ring for a fight. Lucky for him, he still maintains his true and honored best friends, his pair of shinny Berettas, and Josh of course. I always laugh at the many pop culture pokes and references such as when the group Twisted Sister is called out, such nostalgic memories. There is a vast amount of technology and destruction that takes place in this story. Quite a few bodies that need cleaning up after the fact. Overall, it is bigger and more impactful from some of the others in the series.
The audiobook’s narration is as one would expect when you bring on a professional narrator like Gary Bennett to the table. All his narration pieces, which I have listened to, have been exceptional. Characters feel alive, inflection is felt, action is fluid, and the audio is of the highest quality. A strong narrator can elevate a story from good to great, and I can say that I like this duo very much. I do not recall any audio artifacts such as pops, swallows, or background noises while listening. Mr. Bennett’s voice is easy to listen to and is well paced from start to finish.
For parents and younger listeners, this audiobook is intended for more mature listeners. It contains profanity, some adult themes, and some graphic violence that may not be completely appropriate for younger listeners. I would recommend this audiobook and the series for mature listeners only.
In summary, if you have not picked it up from the review, I enjoyed this story quite a bit. It was slower to get rolling, but that allowed the author to ramp up the action from there. The narration was solid and as expected from a professional narrator. Again, based on the end of this story, there are potentially bigger things coming in the next. Keep up the great work you two, and I look forward to the next.
October 13, 2023
A Jet-Setting High-Octane Adventure
Deadly Intent, the fourth installment in the Adrian Hell series by James P. Sumner and narrated by Gary Bennett, delivers an exhilarating and action-packed experience that had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. This book is an intense addition to the series, and it keeps the adrenaline pumping as we follow the intriguing life of Adrian Hell.
The most surprising aspect of Deadly Intent is the ironic beginning, with Adrian in retirement and running his own bar with a girlfriend and a stray dog that’s taken to Adrian. This humanized Adrian to a certain extent in this installment, which adds depth to his character without diminishing his deadly prowess. It makes him even more relatable and intriguing as a lead character and reminds me that he is a person behind those deadly hands. This unexpected setup adds depth to the character and offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s a stark contrast to the high-octane action that follows, making it all the more exciting.
Spoiler Alert: The book evokes a John Wick vibe, with its relentless action sequences and relentless pursuit of justice, making it a must-read for fans of that franchise. However, it’s worth noting that there is a scene that could be triggering for dog lovers, so be prepared for some emotional moments.
The plot takes readers on a global adventure, with Adrian traveling to various locations, providing a thrilling change of scenery and keeping the story fresh. The story also delves into the shadowy world of the U.S. government and its covert operations, creating an atmosphere of secrecy and intrigue that keeps you guessing throughout.
James P. Sumner excels at crafting action-packed narratives, and Deadly Intent is no exception. His storytelling keeps you engaged, and the plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns. As a reader, you can’t help but be captivated by the intricate web of government operatives and top-secret projects that unfold.
Deadly Intent leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next book in the series, as it promises an even more riveting adventure. Sumner has masterfully created a world of action and intrigue, and I, for one, cannot wait to see where Adrian Hell’s journey takes us next. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this audiobook and found myself staying up way too late to listen and eagerly starting it as soon as I woke up. If you’re a fan of action-packed thrillers and compelling characters, this series is a must-read.
The narration by Bennett shines through. He is able to become Hell and it takes an already great storyline and makes it even more realistic. I love getting to dive into his stories because Gary brings so much heart and soul to the storytelling aspect. You can really feel his love for the characters, and stories, and his respect for the authors.
Deadly Intent, the fourth installment in the Adrian Hell series by James P. Sumner and narrated by Gary Bennett, delivers an exhilarating and action-packed experience that had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. This book is an intense addition to the series, and it keeps the adrenaline pumping as we follow the intriguing life of Adrian Hell.
The most surprising aspect of Deadly Intent is the ironic beginning, with Adrian in retirement and running his own bar with a girlfriend and a stray dog that’s taken to Adrian. This humanized Adrian to a certain extent in this installment, which adds depth to his character without diminishing his deadly prowess. It makes him even more relatable and intriguing as a lead character and reminds me that he is a person behind those deadly hands. This unexpected setup adds depth to the character and offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s a stark contrast to the high-octane action that follows, making it all the more exciting.
Spoiler Alert: The book evokes a John Wick vibe, with its relentless action sequences and relentless pursuit of justice, making it a must-read for fans of that franchise. However, it’s worth noting that there is a scene that could be triggering for dog lovers, so be prepared for some emotional moments.
The plot takes readers on a global adventure, with Adrian traveling to various locations, providing a thrilling change of scenery and keeping the story fresh. The story also delves into the shadowy world of the U.S. government and its covert operations, creating an atmosphere of secrecy and intrigue that keeps you guessing throughout.
James P. Sumner excels at crafting action-packed narratives, and Deadly Intent is no exception. His storytelling keeps you engaged, and the plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns. As a reader, you can’t help but be captivated by the intricate web of government operatives and top-secret projects that unfold.
Deadly Intent leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next book in the series, as it promises an even more riveting adventure. Sumner has masterfully created a world of action and intrigue, and I, for one, cannot wait to see where Adrian Hell’s journey takes us next. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this audiobook and found myself staying up way too late to listen and eagerly starting it as soon as I woke up. If you’re a fan of action-packed thrillers and compelling characters, this series is a must-read.
The narration by Bennett shines through. He is able to become Hell and it takes an already great storyline and makes it even more realistic. I love getting to dive into his stories because Gary brings so much heart and soul to the storytelling aspect. You can really feel his love for the characters, and stories, and his respect for the authors.
December 25, 2021
Mind blowing action
The most mind blowing dramatical action book of all time. An ex assassin, now retired and running a bar in a small town is drawn in to a horrendously evil plot to take over the nuke power of the world. Who is behind this sinister plot? Not only does it run deep into the criminal underground it has some of the top U.S. agencies infiltrated but who is the leader? Do not assume anything but all will be revealed in time.
The most mind blowing dramatical action book of all time. An ex assassin, now retired and running a bar in a small town is drawn in to a horrendously evil plot to take over the nuke power of the world. Who is behind this sinister plot? Not only does it run deep into the criminal underground it has some of the top U.S. agencies infiltrated but who is the leader? Do not assume anything but all will be revealed in time.
January 23, 2022
After retiring to Texas and running a bar Adrian is approached by three men trying to recruit him. He tells them no and has to rough them up to get them to leave. These three men are found dead and this story begins. Suffice it to say this turns into an international blood bath conspiracy with Adrian caught up in it. You won’t be able to put this one down ! Awesome cast of characters, non stop action and a superbly written storyline will keep you on the edge of your seat !
May 27, 2022
actions you hope never happens.
There isn’t a way to describe this book and do it justice. You just have to read it. There is more action and killing than makes sense. Adrian get out of gun fights that a normal character would not be capable of doing. The main plot is something you hope would never happen. It shows how you give to much power to a politician things can go wrong. Read and enjoy.
There isn’t a way to describe this book and do it justice. You just have to read it. There is more action and killing than makes sense. Adrian get out of gun fights that a normal character would not be capable of doing. The main plot is something you hope would never happen. It shows how you give to much power to a politician things can go wrong. Read and enjoy.
July 18, 2022
Five Stars
Wow, non stop action from beginning to end, and this book ends on a real cliffhanger. I have read all of the books in order and will immediately start reading the next book in the series, A Necessary Kill. This is a great series. I also really enjoy the banter. Keep them coming Mr James P Sumner 👍
Wow, non stop action from beginning to end, and this book ends on a real cliffhanger. I have read all of the books in order and will immediately start reading the next book in the series, A Necessary Kill. This is a great series. I also really enjoy the banter. Keep them coming Mr James P Sumner 👍
February 22, 2023
The Outstanding Thriller
The story begins with the destruction of Adrian’s bar in Texas and flies to places throughout the world. Adrian had retired as a skilled assassin, but he was required to act as his former outstanding killer. The book is in a series, but the book is great by itself.
The story begins with the destruction of Adrian’s bar in Texas and flies to places throughout the world. Adrian had retired as a skilled assassin, but he was required to act as his former outstanding killer. The book is in a series, but the book is great by itself.
July 4, 2023
No means NO
How many times does saying no result in goal destruction of the ones asking? Readers follow an intense terrors plot that seems highly unlikely for success. Slowly the reader is drawn into seeing the possibility of pilot's success and cheering on main character. Recommend.
How many times does saying no result in goal destruction of the ones asking? Readers follow an intense terrors plot that seems highly unlikely for success. Slowly the reader is drawn into seeing the possibility of pilot's success and cheering on main character. Recommend.
September 15, 2021
Best Adrian Hell story
Fast try to attack countries with control of America's nuclear warhead. Adrian He'll to the rescue (a former season in his prior history). The CIA is part.of the plan to get the satellite.
Fast try to attack countries with control of America's nuclear warhead. Adrian He'll to the rescue (a former season in his prior history). The CIA is part.of the plan to get the satellite.
September 18, 2021
A wild and crazy ride
Adrian Hell has been retired for two years. Too bad the world still has evil that wants him. A thrill ride low no other awaits the reader of this journey. Must read material!
Adrian Hell has been retired for two years. Too bad the world still has evil that wants him. A thrill ride low no other awaits the reader of this journey. Must read material!
September 20, 2021
Powerful
When you say thriller, this book definitely does it. It certainly has muscle. Possibly a little more reality than we'd like to believe but with our country in the condition it's in right now, almost anything is possible. Excellent work totally enjoyable.
When you say thriller, this book definitely does it. It certainly has muscle. Possibly a little more reality than we'd like to believe but with our country in the condition it's in right now, almost anything is possible. Excellent work totally enjoyable.
September 28, 2021
GoodReads like a comic book but still an interesting concept.
Good tale but girlfriends are not adults apparently. I expected better from this author. Maybe next time? Junior high level of language.
Good tale but girlfriends are not adults apparently. I expected better from this author. Maybe next time? Junior high level of language.
October 27, 2021
XXX
Fast paced action from start to finish! Adrian Hell is non stop action. I managed to overlook the language to enjoy the content. Looking forward to reading from book 1 and reading the entire series!
Fast paced action from start to finish! Adrian Hell is non stop action. I managed to overlook the language to enjoy the content. Looking forward to reading from book 1 and reading the entire series!
May 18, 2025
clever and unexpected
Well written, timely and (for an action thriller) well fleshed out characters. Good conspiracy stuff and, based on past (and documented) atrocities committed against our own people, not that far fetched.
Well written, timely and (for an action thriller) well fleshed out characters. Good conspiracy stuff and, based on past (and documented) atrocities committed against our own people, not that far fetched.
June 13, 2017
Excellent read. Encourage readers to follow the order in which the books are written to follow character additions. Holds you attention with plenty of action.
July 18, 2017
The reliable Adrian Hell is back to his normal destructive self. Action packed as expected, but, I gave it 4* because of the ending, and when you get there you will know why.
September 8, 2017
It's worth a read.
Not blown away but entertaining none the less.
I will read the next in the series but not in a rush to.
Not blown away but entertaining none the less.
I will read the next in the series but not in a rush to.
December 20, 2017
I love the whole Adrian Hell series! Fast moving, interesting and a little humor!
July 8, 2018
Amazing
Please please please please read these books. They are amazing . Start from the beginning you will not be disappointed.
Please please please please read these books. They are amazing . Start from the beginning you will not be disappointed.
September 12, 2021
Believable Scary!
After reading this incredibly creative story of what could possibly happen, try to play "What if" and then see if you can sleep through the night!
After reading this incredibly creative story of what could possibly happen, try to play "What if" and then see if you can sleep through the night!
September 14, 2021
Awesomely thrilling.
A thrill a minute. The cast wonderfully assign, friend, foe, two lovers, all mixed up in a deadly duel to save our planet. Then no ending
A thrill a minute. The cast wonderfully assign, friend, foe, two lovers, all mixed up in a deadly duel to save our planet. Then no ending
September 18, 2021
Good book
Wow, this book is a very scary scenario of what could happen to the world with the wrong people in control.
Wow, this book is a very scary scenario of what could happen to the world with the wrong people in control.
June 8, 2022
Excellent! I would have rated it 5 stars if it hadn't been a cliff-hanger. Of course I'll still read the next in the series. I rate this one 4.7 stars.
July 25, 2022
The book started well with Adrian starting a new life but shortly turned in to an over exaggerated and unbelievable story. One man against the world. Let's hope the next episode is more believable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews