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Peter Ash #3
Light It Up
“Lots of characters get compared to my own Jack Reacher, but Petrie’s Peter Ash is the real deal.”—Lee Child
In this action-packed thriller starring war veteran Peter Ash, a well-planned and flawlessly executed hijacking reveals the hidden dangers of Colorado's mellowest business, but Ash may find there’s more to this crime than meets the eye.
Combat veteran Peter Ash leaves a simple life rebuilding hiking trails in Oregon to help his good friend Henry Nygaard, whose daughter runs a Denver security company that protects cash-rich cannabis entrepreneurs from modern-day highwaymen. Henry’s son-in-law and the company’s operations manager were carrying a large sum of client money when their vehicle vanished without a trace, leaving Henry’s daughter and her company vulnerable.
When Peter is riding shotgun on another cash run, the cargo he’s guarding comes under attack and he narrowly escapes with his life. As the assaults escalate, Peter has to wonder: for criminals this sophisticated, is it really just about the cash?
After finding himself on the defensive for too long, Peter marshals his resources and begins to dig for the truth in a scheme that is bigger—and far more lucrative—than he’d ever anticipated. With so much on the line, his enemy will not give up quietly...and now he has Peter directly in his sights.
In this action-packed thriller starring war veteran Peter Ash, a well-planned and flawlessly executed hijacking reveals the hidden dangers of Colorado's mellowest business, but Ash may find there’s more to this crime than meets the eye.
Combat veteran Peter Ash leaves a simple life rebuilding hiking trails in Oregon to help his good friend Henry Nygaard, whose daughter runs a Denver security company that protects cash-rich cannabis entrepreneurs from modern-day highwaymen. Henry’s son-in-law and the company’s operations manager were carrying a large sum of client money when their vehicle vanished without a trace, leaving Henry’s daughter and her company vulnerable.
When Peter is riding shotgun on another cash run, the cargo he’s guarding comes under attack and he narrowly escapes with his life. As the assaults escalate, Peter has to wonder: for criminals this sophisticated, is it really just about the cash?
After finding himself on the defensive for too long, Peter marshals his resources and begins to dig for the truth in a scheme that is bigger—and far more lucrative—than he’d ever anticipated. With so much on the line, his enemy will not give up quietly...and now he has Peter directly in his sights.
416 pages, Paperback
First published January 16, 2018
1434 people are currently reading
2303 people want to read
About the author
Nick Petrie
24 books1,214 followersNick Petrie received his MFA in fiction from the University of Washington, won a Hopwood Award for short fiction while an undergraduate at the University of Michigan, and his story “At the Laundromat” won the 2006 Short Story Contest in The Seattle Review, a national literary journal. A husband and father, he has worked as a carpenter, remodeling contractor, and building inspector. He lives in Milwaukee.
For more on Nick Petrie, see his website NickPetrie.com, or find him on Facebook or Twitter.
For more on Nick Petrie, see his website NickPetrie.com, or find him on Facebook or Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 669 reviews
December 13, 2017
4.5 stars, rounded up.
There's this feeling I get when I'm reading a series of books I like. It's like hanging out with old friends—it feels good to see them again and spend some time with them, and while the circumstances are always a little bit different, I know what to expect of them, and I like that.
Although Light it Up is only Nick Petrie's third book featuring awesomely badass drifter Peter Ash, I got that feeling when reading it. Peter is one cool, complicated character that I find totally fascinating—a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan whose PTSD manifests itself as claustrophobia that makes it difficult for him to be indoors or closed-in spaces for long periods of time. Peter is fiercely loyal, and that loyalty can demonstrate itself in dangerous ways, for those who choose to test it as well as for himself.
When Peter meets Henry Nygaard, despite the significant difference in their ages, there is an immediate kinship built on their shared veteran status (although vastly different wars), their strong work ethic, and their mutual belief that both may still be capable of redemption and happiness despite all they've done in their past. When their work rebuilding trails in the Pacific Northwest ends at the conclusion of a summer, they're ready to part ways, until Henry asks Peter for help, a clarion call Peter is unable to resist.
Henry's adult daughter runs a security company in Denver, a company he helped her set up, partially as a way of making amends for not knowing she existed until not too long ago. She told Henry that her husband, a former veteran himself, and his crew disappeared one day while making a run for one of the rapidly growing entrepreneurs in Colorado's cannabis business.
The money, the vehicle, the men—all have gone without a trace, and the police have no clue of their whereabouts. Henry's daughter needs a new crew to handle a money run for another businessman, and she needs this to succeed or all she has put together will collapse.
Henry recruits Peter and a few other vets to help with this run. When everything goes spectacularly wrong, Peter barely escapes with his life, and he realizes that they're up against a far more formidable foe than simple highway robbers. But what is there to be gained if the actual financial payoff isn't that high? How lucrative can the cannabis business really be, when so many in the state are growing and selling it these days?
In trying to figure out who is behind the attacks, Peter stumbles into a much deeper plot, being organized by those who will stop at nothing to get what they want. As he enlists some friends, including investigative reporter June Cassidy, with whom Peter dares to perhaps hope for a future, he realizes there is danger hidden within this seemingly mellow business, danger which could affect them all.
Petrie hits another home run with Light it Up . This is such a terrific series and Peter is an immensely fascinating character, someone far more complex than the troubled, musclebound Marine you think he is at first glance. This book gives you more of a glimpse into his mind and his heart, while not letting up for one second on the action. There are truly some scenes in this book that are tailor-made for the big screen, chases and fights and encounters that leave your heart racing.
I believe I've said in my reviews of Petrie's earlier books, The Drifter and Burning Bright , that I don't know why he isn't a star, and why Peter Ash isn't as well-known as Jack Reacher. (Lee Child even blurbs Petrie's books!) Read this one, or any of these books in the series, and maybe you'll agree with me—and then tell as many people as you can about them!
NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Putnam provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making this available!
See all of my reviews at http://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blo....
There's this feeling I get when I'm reading a series of books I like. It's like hanging out with old friends—it feels good to see them again and spend some time with them, and while the circumstances are always a little bit different, I know what to expect of them, and I like that.
Although Light it Up is only Nick Petrie's third book featuring awesomely badass drifter Peter Ash, I got that feeling when reading it. Peter is one cool, complicated character that I find totally fascinating—a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan whose PTSD manifests itself as claustrophobia that makes it difficult for him to be indoors or closed-in spaces for long periods of time. Peter is fiercely loyal, and that loyalty can demonstrate itself in dangerous ways, for those who choose to test it as well as for himself.
When Peter meets Henry Nygaard, despite the significant difference in their ages, there is an immediate kinship built on their shared veteran status (although vastly different wars), their strong work ethic, and their mutual belief that both may still be capable of redemption and happiness despite all they've done in their past. When their work rebuilding trails in the Pacific Northwest ends at the conclusion of a summer, they're ready to part ways, until Henry asks Peter for help, a clarion call Peter is unable to resist.
Henry's adult daughter runs a security company in Denver, a company he helped her set up, partially as a way of making amends for not knowing she existed until not too long ago. She told Henry that her husband, a former veteran himself, and his crew disappeared one day while making a run for one of the rapidly growing entrepreneurs in Colorado's cannabis business.
The money, the vehicle, the men—all have gone without a trace, and the police have no clue of their whereabouts. Henry's daughter needs a new crew to handle a money run for another businessman, and she needs this to succeed or all she has put together will collapse.
Henry recruits Peter and a few other vets to help with this run. When everything goes spectacularly wrong, Peter barely escapes with his life, and he realizes that they're up against a far more formidable foe than simple highway robbers. But what is there to be gained if the actual financial payoff isn't that high? How lucrative can the cannabis business really be, when so many in the state are growing and selling it these days?
In trying to figure out who is behind the attacks, Peter stumbles into a much deeper plot, being organized by those who will stop at nothing to get what they want. As he enlists some friends, including investigative reporter June Cassidy, with whom Peter dares to perhaps hope for a future, he realizes there is danger hidden within this seemingly mellow business, danger which could affect them all.
Petrie hits another home run with Light it Up . This is such a terrific series and Peter is an immensely fascinating character, someone far more complex than the troubled, musclebound Marine you think he is at first glance. This book gives you more of a glimpse into his mind and his heart, while not letting up for one second on the action. There are truly some scenes in this book that are tailor-made for the big screen, chases and fights and encounters that leave your heart racing.
I believe I've said in my reviews of Petrie's earlier books, The Drifter and Burning Bright , that I don't know why he isn't a star, and why Peter Ash isn't as well-known as Jack Reacher. (Lee Child even blurbs Petrie's books!) Read this one, or any of these books in the series, and maybe you'll agree with me—and then tell as many people as you can about them!
NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Putnam provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making this available!
See all of my reviews at http://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blo....
October 17, 2017
This ARC was accepted complements of NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. Gratitude sent to G.P. Putnam's Sons for allowing this pre-release made available.
In his third installment of the Peter Ash series, Nick Petrie failed to keep me waiting long for the adrenaline-packed action to unleash. Just the way, (a-ha a-ha) I like it. I wasn't left out in the cold for not having read the first two books in the series. A natural born standalone. The characters arrived well-developed. I was never left behind. The story line danced to the sound of rolling thunder. It was all I could do to keep from falling off the edge of my chair. In the end, the rush of brutality hit with the power of a tsunami. Some needed R&R would be in order.
Since its legalization, the cannabis industry is booming, especially, in the mile high city of Denver. Growing in leaps and bounds, the industry's found itself in the crosshairs of many unsavory characters. An all cash business. What more could you ask for? Most attractive to the criminal elements of society. Until federal laws change, banks will refuse to deal with this budding industry. The risks of prosecution are all too great. Though legal in Colorado, it's still a punishable offense to sell or use marijuana. There lies the conundrum. As a result, the successful dispensaries are laden with cash.
Former platoon leader, Marine lieutenant, Peter Ash, found himself the lone survivor of an orchestrated hit made on security company, Heavy Metal Protection. The company vehicle had been hijacked on a desolate mountain road outside Denver. A client's money stashed aboard. The company's founder, Henry Nygaard, and two employees had been killed in the melee. They were all Peter's friends. Mostly Henry. Four of the hijackers had been taken out. The ringleader, had gotten away. A total of seven dead. A bloody day. Peter barely escaped with his life. Again.
The security detail was transporting $300,000 cash to a well-hidden place for safekeeping. The hijackers were pros. They learned of the route the armed security guards would take. It seemed strange they would risk life and limb for a relatively small payoff after being split several ways. There had to be more, something else they desperately wanted. Something of greater value than money alone. Point was, they were invested too deep and were not about to give up the ship until they had what they were after. Whatever it was. No matter how many more paid the ultimate price. Though one insurmountable obstacle stood in their way - Peter Ash, a battle-hardened Marine. He wasn't about to back down from any challenge. Didn't know how. Not so long as he still had a pulse. Bring it on!
In his third installment of the Peter Ash series, Nick Petrie failed to keep me waiting long for the adrenaline-packed action to unleash. Just the way, (a-ha a-ha) I like it. I wasn't left out in the cold for not having read the first two books in the series. A natural born standalone. The characters arrived well-developed. I was never left behind. The story line danced to the sound of rolling thunder. It was all I could do to keep from falling off the edge of my chair. In the end, the rush of brutality hit with the power of a tsunami. Some needed R&R would be in order.
Since its legalization, the cannabis industry is booming, especially, in the mile high city of Denver. Growing in leaps and bounds, the industry's found itself in the crosshairs of many unsavory characters. An all cash business. What more could you ask for? Most attractive to the criminal elements of society. Until federal laws change, banks will refuse to deal with this budding industry. The risks of prosecution are all too great. Though legal in Colorado, it's still a punishable offense to sell or use marijuana. There lies the conundrum. As a result, the successful dispensaries are laden with cash.
Former platoon leader, Marine lieutenant, Peter Ash, found himself the lone survivor of an orchestrated hit made on security company, Heavy Metal Protection. The company vehicle had been hijacked on a desolate mountain road outside Denver. A client's money stashed aboard. The company's founder, Henry Nygaard, and two employees had been killed in the melee. They were all Peter's friends. Mostly Henry. Four of the hijackers had been taken out. The ringleader, had gotten away. A total of seven dead. A bloody day. Peter barely escaped with his life. Again.
The security detail was transporting $300,000 cash to a well-hidden place for safekeeping. The hijackers were pros. They learned of the route the armed security guards would take. It seemed strange they would risk life and limb for a relatively small payoff after being split several ways. There had to be more, something else they desperately wanted. Something of greater value than money alone. Point was, they were invested too deep and were not about to give up the ship until they had what they were after. Whatever it was. No matter how many more paid the ultimate price. Though one insurmountable obstacle stood in their way - Peter Ash, a battle-hardened Marine. He wasn't about to back down from any challenge. Didn't know how. Not so long as he still had a pulse. Bring it on!
January 15, 2018
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I enjoyed this book! This book reads like an action movie in a lot of ways. It was exciting and there are so many adrenaline filled scenes that keep the excitement level high. This is the third book in the Peter Ash series but I do think that it could be read as a stand alone since it tells its own story. I had such a good time reading this book and found it to be quite the page turner.
Peter is such a great character. I almost think that he can do anything after reading this book. He is smart. resourceful, and incredibly tough. I am not sure that a real man could do all the things that Peter was able to accomplish in this book but I don't care since it was such a fun read. Peter must deal PTSD as a result of some of the things he has seen and done as a Marine. For Peter, this manifests as claustrophobia and he cannot stand to be inside for long which adds an interesting twist to things. Most of this book happens outside so it didn't come up quite as much in this installment but there were a few scenes where it did come up.
The mystery in this book was interesting and fairly complex. I can tell you that I had no idea how things would work out. There were some people that I didn't trust as much as others but I had no idea how they might be involved. This was a multiple layered mystery and as soon as one puzzle was closer to being solved another would begin. The legal cannabis industry was a big part of the story which thought provoking. It was really nice to read such an original and unique story.
I enjoyed seeing a couple of characters from previous books play a role in this story. Lewis has been around since the first book and he is back for some action again in this story. I really enjoy seeing Lewis and Peter work together and think that they make a really great team. June played a big role in the last book and plays a key role once again. I really liked seeing the development in their relationship in this installment. There were some new characters in this book as well. The chapters that were from told from the point of view of the culprits were my least favorite parts of the book simply because I didn't enjoy spending time in their heads.
I would recommend this book to others. This is a great installment to an exciting and action packed series. Once I got started reading, I didn't want to set the book aside because I had to know how Peter would save the day. I can't wait to read more from Nick Petrie!
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Penguin Group - Putnam G.P. Putnam's Sons via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
This was a pretty exciting read. Lots of action and great characters. Peter proves himself to be very resourceful and tough in this story. The mystery was pretty complex and kept me guessing. The fact that the mystery is connected to the business of selling cannabis legally made everything a little more interesting since it is a topic that I have really given no thought to before.
I enjoyed this book! This book reads like an action movie in a lot of ways. It was exciting and there are so many adrenaline filled scenes that keep the excitement level high. This is the third book in the Peter Ash series but I do think that it could be read as a stand alone since it tells its own story. I had such a good time reading this book and found it to be quite the page turner.
Peter is such a great character. I almost think that he can do anything after reading this book. He is smart. resourceful, and incredibly tough. I am not sure that a real man could do all the things that Peter was able to accomplish in this book but I don't care since it was such a fun read. Peter must deal PTSD as a result of some of the things he has seen and done as a Marine. For Peter, this manifests as claustrophobia and he cannot stand to be inside for long which adds an interesting twist to things. Most of this book happens outside so it didn't come up quite as much in this installment but there were a few scenes where it did come up.
The mystery in this book was interesting and fairly complex. I can tell you that I had no idea how things would work out. There were some people that I didn't trust as much as others but I had no idea how they might be involved. This was a multiple layered mystery and as soon as one puzzle was closer to being solved another would begin. The legal cannabis industry was a big part of the story which thought provoking. It was really nice to read such an original and unique story.
I enjoyed seeing a couple of characters from previous books play a role in this story. Lewis has been around since the first book and he is back for some action again in this story. I really enjoy seeing Lewis and Peter work together and think that they make a really great team. June played a big role in the last book and plays a key role once again. I really liked seeing the development in their relationship in this installment. There were some new characters in this book as well. The chapters that were from told from the point of view of the culprits were my least favorite parts of the book simply because I didn't enjoy spending time in their heads.
I would recommend this book to others. This is a great installment to an exciting and action packed series. Once I got started reading, I didn't want to set the book aside because I had to know how Peter would save the day. I can't wait to read more from Nick Petrie!
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Penguin Group - Putnam G.P. Putnam's Sons via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
This was a pretty exciting read. Lots of action and great characters. Peter proves himself to be very resourceful and tough in this story. The mystery was pretty complex and kept me guessing. The fact that the mystery is connected to the business of selling cannabis legally made everything a little more interesting since it is a topic that I have really given no thought to before.
December 1, 2022
War-scared ex-marine Peter Ash (a pretty common character type these days) is working in rural Oregon rebuilding hiking trails. This is a perfect environment for Ash since a symptom of his PTSD is extreme claustrophobia to the extent that he must sleep outside in no more than a tent where he can see outside. His good friend Henry, with whom he is rebuilding the trails is summoned home to Denver by his daughter on an emergency basis. Her company transports large amounts of cash for cannabis growers. This service is necessary since the federal government still classifies ¨weed¨ as an illegal drug resulting in banks being unable to accept deposits that are income from weed sales, making it an all-cash, high-risk business.
One of her company's trucks., driven by her husband and accompanied by another guard, has disappeared along with the large amount of cash that it was transporting to a location in the Rocky Mountains. Peter, whose mission in life is saving people in trouble, accompanies Henry to Denver. Peter, Henry and a couple more very tough but good-guy guards from the company take another load of cash to an undisclosed location for storage when, lo and behold, they are highjacked in a very sophisticated manner by an extremely well-trained and very disciplined group. But, as in many of these action thrillers, things are not as simple as they seem. Peter escapes, along with Henry, who dies before they can reach his home. Now Peter feels doubly obligated to help. Chaos ensues.
Light It Up is the third book in the Peter Ash series building nicely on the previous two. Petrie has created a complex, very engaging plot with lots of action and twists and turns, several of which are quite clever. Peter has a lot of depth and complexity and learning more about him is quite enjoyable. Many of the other characters are new to the series and while most are created with a lot of depth and texture, some could have been better developed. The book is gritty as it contains some fairly graphic violence along with detailed, body-shattering results.
I will definitely continue to read books in the series as I find them very engaging and well-written although there may be a tad too much graphically portrayed violence. I can comfortably recommend this book to lovers of graphic violence and death in their action thrillers. As I frequently do, I will suggest that you start with the first book in the series as there is a fairly detailed back story.
Fini
One of her company's trucks., driven by her husband and accompanied by another guard, has disappeared along with the large amount of cash that it was transporting to a location in the Rocky Mountains. Peter, whose mission in life is saving people in trouble, accompanies Henry to Denver. Peter, Henry and a couple more very tough but good-guy guards from the company take another load of cash to an undisclosed location for storage when, lo and behold, they are highjacked in a very sophisticated manner by an extremely well-trained and very disciplined group. But, as in many of these action thrillers, things are not as simple as they seem. Peter escapes, along with Henry, who dies before they can reach his home. Now Peter feels doubly obligated to help. Chaos ensues.
Light It Up is the third book in the Peter Ash series building nicely on the previous two. Petrie has created a complex, very engaging plot with lots of action and twists and turns, several of which are quite clever. Peter has a lot of depth and complexity and learning more about him is quite enjoyable. Many of the other characters are new to the series and while most are created with a lot of depth and texture, some could have been better developed. The book is gritty as it contains some fairly graphic violence along with detailed, body-shattering results.
I will definitely continue to read books in the series as I find them very engaging and well-written although there may be a tad too much graphically portrayed violence. I can comfortably recommend this book to lovers of graphic violence and death in their action thrillers. As I frequently do, I will suggest that you start with the first book in the series as there is a fairly detailed back story.
Fini
April 15, 2018
Well this one was exhausting.
Thank you Netgalley, Penguin Group/Putnam and Nick Petrie for the ARC.
Do not ask me why I adore Nick Petrie's Peter Ash and Lee Child's Jack Reacher as much as I do. I am a 60 plus year old female, sedentary, semi-retired accountant who spends more time reading instead of doing housework.....and have the dirt, dog hair and dust all over the house to prove it. My main problems for the past 30 something years have been lack of time and lack of closet space. I've learned to live with both.
Maybe that's what I find so appealing about Peter Ash & Jack Reacher..... neither has a closet.
I have adored Peter since The Drifter. Gotta love a guy that runs a stinking dog through a carwash! What a creative solution!
Light It Up was a real roller coaster for me. It was a very fast read for me. Also, I felt cold and wet through most of it. Glad to see more of Lewis in this book and June as well. Tough an resourceful, the both of them
and well matched with Peter.
Thank you Netgalley, Penguin Group/Putnam and Nick Petrie for the ARC.
Do not ask me why I adore Nick Petrie's Peter Ash and Lee Child's Jack Reacher as much as I do. I am a 60 plus year old female, sedentary, semi-retired accountant who spends more time reading instead of doing housework.....and have the dirt, dog hair and dust all over the house to prove it. My main problems for the past 30 something years have been lack of time and lack of closet space. I've learned to live with both.
Maybe that's what I find so appealing about Peter Ash & Jack Reacher..... neither has a closet.
I have adored Peter since The Drifter. Gotta love a guy that runs a stinking dog through a carwash! What a creative solution!
Light It Up was a real roller coaster for me. It was a very fast read for me. Also, I felt cold and wet through most of it. Glad to see more of Lewis in this book and June as well. Tough an resourceful, the both of them
and well matched with Peter.
January 19, 2018
Peter Ash in this third book of the series once again seems to have gotten himself mixed up with some bad hombres while trying to help a friend. The story was clever and original but there was just a little too much violence for my taste. This is an action packed story with Peter fighting for his and his friends lives every moment. While I enjoyed the second book, this book left me cold. The story was good and well plotted and will have an appeal to many readers.
This review was originally posted on The Pfaeffle Journal
This review was originally posted on The Pfaeffle Journal
February 16, 2018
The first book in this new, exciting, and fresh series – "The Drifter" – introduced Peter Ash, an ex-military man who suffers greatly from post-traumatic claustrophobia from tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. A promotional blurb on the cover from Lee Child certainly didn’t hurt either. The second book – "Burning Bright" – continued Peter’s attempt at re-integrating himself into society, provided a tighter and more intricate plot line, and introduced June Cassidy, a strong potential love interest.
Like those outings, the third book "Light It Up" kicks off with serious action and pulls you into plot immediately. Peter is helping his good friend Henry Nygaard and his daughter, who runs a security company providing protection to legalized cannabis companies in Denver, Colorado. A week previous, Henry’s son-in-law and the operations manager vanished while transporting a large cash collection. When the story begins a week later, Peter, Henry and two other employees are performing another cash run when they are ambushed by a professional team. Peter narrowly escapes with Henry during an exciting downhill stretcher chase after the other two are viciously killed, only to have Henry pass away when he gets to the hospital.
Peter is interrogated by the police who sense he is holding back on the full story (he is), and after leaving the hospital, he is chased down and shot at. Someone involved in the crime does not want Peter to live. It doesn’t take long for him to call for help, and before you know it, Miranda Howe, a sexy and forceful lawyer, shows up to defend him; followed shortly by Lewis, his old mobster gone-good compadre, and June Cassidy, his personal research and growing love interest.
As the plot deepens, the police use Peter as bait for the professional crime team, while he has his plan to get them first as revenge for Henry and his daughter. Peter shifts from defense to offense and uses his own team to investigate how and why the robberies are taking place. The action then quickly builds into a boiling pot of shoot-outs, chases, and fight scenes spanning the last 100 pages.
Petrie does a superb job with revealing the mystery and characters in strong fashion, like peeling an onion one layer at a time. His fast paced, fluid prose pulls you in and makes you actively involved in the story. You care about solving the mystery; you care about the characters; you care about the relationships; and you certainly care about the outcomes.
There was a lot of good things in this book. One of the most surprising and well delivered was how June’s training and determination played a key role in the outcome of the book. It was refreshing to see her personal strength match those of the testosterone driven men and raise the bar higher. There was a moment when I started to worry she might be a goner, but her last conversation with Ashe in the cabin left an indelible impression and emotional climax to the story.
In addition, Petrie delved a little more into Ashe’s background and character formation. In this one, we learn about how far Ashe will go to seek justice, regardless of the ramifications. We also learn more about Lewis and the influences during his early years that led into his outlaw lifestyle. I enjoy hearing more about their history and character defining moments because it provides depth to their authenticity.
Let’s also address the other reason as to why this series is so good only three books in. At first look, Ash is a copy of Jack Reacher, the main character in Lee Child’s very popular action series. There are definite similarities between the two characters. Let’s not downplay that. And there’s Lee Child is providing a promotional blurb on the book cover promising “Peter Ash is the real deal.” Having read all the Reacher books and being a fan, of course I will be interested in looking at another version of Reacher. At least a small look…
However, because Ash suffers from such a serious post-war syndrome, he causes you to look at him in a different light. After only three books, I see how he is developing into his own character with his own defined strengths and weaknesses. He is not Reacher incarnate; Nick Petrie has created his own-antihero that stands on his own. Maybe that is why both Lee Child and David Baldacci wrote uplifting blurbs for the covers of the books, which is a pretty cool thing to have happen. That is respect.
But it truly works because Nick Petrie has done his homework and delivered. He has taken the foundation that prior great mystery and adventure writers have established and is moving the work another step forward. Although it is early in his career, he is making a significant impact in this genre by taking that foundation and laying a second floor that is beautiful and a joy to read. I promise that I am not related to him, nor do I know him personally. But I have become an avid fan who has no problem recommending him to others with a confident smile.
Like those outings, the third book "Light It Up" kicks off with serious action and pulls you into plot immediately. Peter is helping his good friend Henry Nygaard and his daughter, who runs a security company providing protection to legalized cannabis companies in Denver, Colorado. A week previous, Henry’s son-in-law and the operations manager vanished while transporting a large cash collection. When the story begins a week later, Peter, Henry and two other employees are performing another cash run when they are ambushed by a professional team. Peter narrowly escapes with Henry during an exciting downhill stretcher chase after the other two are viciously killed, only to have Henry pass away when he gets to the hospital.
Peter is interrogated by the police who sense he is holding back on the full story (he is), and after leaving the hospital, he is chased down and shot at. Someone involved in the crime does not want Peter to live. It doesn’t take long for him to call for help, and before you know it, Miranda Howe, a sexy and forceful lawyer, shows up to defend him; followed shortly by Lewis, his old mobster gone-good compadre, and June Cassidy, his personal research and growing love interest.
As the plot deepens, the police use Peter as bait for the professional crime team, while he has his plan to get them first as revenge for Henry and his daughter. Peter shifts from defense to offense and uses his own team to investigate how and why the robberies are taking place. The action then quickly builds into a boiling pot of shoot-outs, chases, and fight scenes spanning the last 100 pages.
Petrie does a superb job with revealing the mystery and characters in strong fashion, like peeling an onion one layer at a time. His fast paced, fluid prose pulls you in and makes you actively involved in the story. You care about solving the mystery; you care about the characters; you care about the relationships; and you certainly care about the outcomes.
There was a lot of good things in this book. One of the most surprising and well delivered was how June’s training and determination played a key role in the outcome of the book. It was refreshing to see her personal strength match those of the testosterone driven men and raise the bar higher. There was a moment when I started to worry she might be a goner, but her last conversation with Ashe in the cabin left an indelible impression and emotional climax to the story.
In addition, Petrie delved a little more into Ashe’s background and character formation. In this one, we learn about how far Ashe will go to seek justice, regardless of the ramifications. We also learn more about Lewis and the influences during his early years that led into his outlaw lifestyle. I enjoy hearing more about their history and character defining moments because it provides depth to their authenticity.
Let’s also address the other reason as to why this series is so good only three books in. At first look, Ash is a copy of Jack Reacher, the main character in Lee Child’s very popular action series. There are definite similarities between the two characters. Let’s not downplay that. And there’s Lee Child is providing a promotional blurb on the book cover promising “Peter Ash is the real deal.” Having read all the Reacher books and being a fan, of course I will be interested in looking at another version of Reacher. At least a small look…
However, because Ash suffers from such a serious post-war syndrome, he causes you to look at him in a different light. After only three books, I see how he is developing into his own character with his own defined strengths and weaknesses. He is not Reacher incarnate; Nick Petrie has created his own-antihero that stands on his own. Maybe that is why both Lee Child and David Baldacci wrote uplifting blurbs for the covers of the books, which is a pretty cool thing to have happen. That is respect.
But it truly works because Nick Petrie has done his homework and delivered. He has taken the foundation that prior great mystery and adventure writers have established and is moving the work another step forward. Although it is early in his career, he is making a significant impact in this genre by taking that foundation and laying a second floor that is beautiful and a joy to read. I promise that I am not related to him, nor do I know him personally. But I have become an avid fan who has no problem recommending him to others with a confident smile.
February 14, 2018
This is my first Peter Ash book and it was entertaining with great action and characters. The story has a cannabis business setting in Colorado. Even though this is the third book, you get to know the characters well and can jump right in. Peter Ash feels real and a likable guy.
December 2, 2020
Lots of action, didn’t want to stop listening!
December 6, 2017
I should have loved this book. The content ticked all the right boxes for me. I wanted to love it. But I was left feeling kind of... meh.
First, a strong positive: The action scenes are great. Nick Petrie gives a cinematic feel to the fight and chase scenes, so I could see this stuff playing out as I was reading.
Now my thoughts on the other stuff...
The plot feels largely formulaic. For me, it was like watching a train race down a straight track from a mile away. I knew what was going to happen every step of the way, and there were no surprises at all.
After a while, the action became repetitive; a kind of rinse and repeat of scenes. By midway through, I found myself skimming over paragraphs at a time.
And, finally, the ending pushed plausibility too far for me. Everything wrapped up in a giant explosion of action, as thrillers usually do, but it all made me roll my eyes more than it made me breathless.
I have not read the first two books in this series. While there are references to things that happened in the prior books, I had no issues understanding the characters, their relationships, and their background. This one reads fine as a stand-alone.
*I received an advance copy from the publisher, via Amazon Vine, in exchange for my honest review.*
First, a strong positive: The action scenes are great. Nick Petrie gives a cinematic feel to the fight and chase scenes, so I could see this stuff playing out as I was reading.
Now my thoughts on the other stuff...
The plot feels largely formulaic. For me, it was like watching a train race down a straight track from a mile away. I knew what was going to happen every step of the way, and there were no surprises at all.
After a while, the action became repetitive; a kind of rinse and repeat of scenes. By midway through, I found myself skimming over paragraphs at a time.
And, finally, the ending pushed plausibility too far for me. Everything wrapped up in a giant explosion of action, as thrillers usually do, but it all made me roll my eyes more than it made me breathless.
I have not read the first two books in this series. While there are references to things that happened in the prior books, I had no issues understanding the characters, their relationships, and their background. This one reads fine as a stand-alone.
*I received an advance copy from the publisher, via Amazon Vine, in exchange for my honest review.*
October 24, 2018
Action-Packed Thrills Galore
Light It Up is a page-churning monster of a men's adventure thriller, third in Petrie's Peter Ash series, and filled with action, suspense, and even a knockout romance. The lead in the story, Ash, is an Iraq War veteran, still dealing with his memories and experiences. Still battle-hardened tough, but back in the States, it may be that he feels at times like he's still at war with the bad guys. This chapter in his story takes place in the Mile-High City, Denver, and the city and its environs are in a bit of cultural shock with the legalization of cannabis and the truckloads of legal cash being hauled around. With that kind of cash, battle-tough veterans are needed to protect the stagecoaches from robbers. That's where Ash comes in, like the Sheriff wandering into Tombstone. Just great fun from beginning to end.
Light It Up is a page-churning monster of a men's adventure thriller, third in Petrie's Peter Ash series, and filled with action, suspense, and even a knockout romance. The lead in the story, Ash, is an Iraq War veteran, still dealing with his memories and experiences. Still battle-hardened tough, but back in the States, it may be that he feels at times like he's still at war with the bad guys. This chapter in his story takes place in the Mile-High City, Denver, and the city and its environs are in a bit of cultural shock with the legalization of cannabis and the truckloads of legal cash being hauled around. With that kind of cash, battle-tough veterans are needed to protect the stagecoaches from robbers. That's where Ash comes in, like the Sheriff wandering into Tombstone. Just great fun from beginning to end.
May 26, 2020
Peter Ash, former recon Marine is helping to rebuild hiking trails in Oregon.
He makes friends with Henry, a tough Vietnam Vet.
Henry asks Peter for help at his daughter's security company. A company that provides security for the cannabis industry. It is like the wild west in that the cannabis entrepreneurs have no safe place to keep all their cash. ( banks are not allowed to give them accounts).
Modern Highwaymen are happy to steal as much as they can.
However, in the case that Henry needs help with, two employees, their vehicle and all the cash have completely disappeared. Which points towards a more sophisticated group of thieves.
Peter is helping to guard the next load of money and they come under attack.
This looks like a bigger scheme is playing out....the attacks are usually just a quick smash and grab but these are too well organized to be just about the money.
Peter calls in Lewis, his business partner. Lewis is a very tough guy.
Lots of action!
The discussion of the cannabis industry shows that it's a bit of a dirty game as far as I can tell, no matter how lucrative. Imagine that is the case in real life.
But in any case the story was interesting, still.
He makes friends with Henry, a tough Vietnam Vet.
Henry asks Peter for help at his daughter's security company. A company that provides security for the cannabis industry. It is like the wild west in that the cannabis entrepreneurs have no safe place to keep all their cash. ( banks are not allowed to give them accounts).
Modern Highwaymen are happy to steal as much as they can.
However, in the case that Henry needs help with, two employees, their vehicle and all the cash have completely disappeared. Which points towards a more sophisticated group of thieves.
Peter is helping to guard the next load of money and they come under attack.
This looks like a bigger scheme is playing out....the attacks are usually just a quick smash and grab but these are too well organized to be just about the money.
Peter calls in Lewis, his business partner. Lewis is a very tough guy.
Lots of action!
The discussion of the cannabis industry shows that it's a bit of a dirty game as far as I can tell, no matter how lucrative. Imagine that is the case in real life.
But in any case the story was interesting, still.
July 25, 2023
Light It Up was an excellent addition to the Peter Ash series that was action-packed with a thrilling plot that didn’t let up from start to finish.
Peter Ash has spent the past few months living a simple life rebuilding hiking trails in Oregon when his friend Henry asks him to come help him for a week in Denver. Henry’s daughter runs a security company that provides protection for the cash heavy cannabis industry and two of her men have gone missing leaving her in a bind. While Peter is helping out on a cash run for a client, their vehicle comes under attack and only Peter narrowly escapes. Peter knows the amount of money they were moving couldn’t be worth all this, so what were the hijackers really after?
Light It Up picks up about six months after the events in book two of the series, Burning Bright. The plot of this book was really interesting and quite relevant with the recent legalization of marijuana in several states. I definitely found the plot believable as marijuana stores are mainly cash businesses as federal law still prohibits the sale of marijuana making it difficult for the owners of the stores to use banks. The book was full of action-packed scenes with a lot of tension and the book moves at a quick pace with little down time. There were a few scenes I was surprised by for their brutality, but overall I liked the choices the author made for the story.
In the months since Burning Bright, Peter has been working with a therapist on his claustrophobia and the “white static” that goes with it. He can now tolerate being indoors for longer periods of time, but his condition is in no way fixed and he still spends most of his time outside. During the cash run he is on that gets hijacked, we see Peter display more of his skills as he deals with the men who intercepted them. His physical strength combined with his quick thinking are certainly what saved his life. Despite his friendship with Henry being only a few months old, Peter was instantly willing to help him and was determined to find out who came after them.
My favorite character of the series, Lewis, returned in Light It Up which made me very happy. Lewis is such a mystery, I enjoy learning little bits about him in each successive book. His friendship with Peter is excellent and I enjoy their conversations. June also returns in this book and I enjoy her relationship with Peter as it’s done well for this not being a romance book (which is something as a romance reader I appreciate since that’s not always the case). I love that June is able to handle herself and doesn’t need saving as she’s perfectly capable of saving herself.
Light It Up has been my favorite book in the series thus far and I look forward to reading more from the author in the future.
**I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via the First to Read program in exchange for an honest review.**
Peter Ash has spent the past few months living a simple life rebuilding hiking trails in Oregon when his friend Henry asks him to come help him for a week in Denver. Henry’s daughter runs a security company that provides protection for the cash heavy cannabis industry and two of her men have gone missing leaving her in a bind. While Peter is helping out on a cash run for a client, their vehicle comes under attack and only Peter narrowly escapes. Peter knows the amount of money they were moving couldn’t be worth all this, so what were the hijackers really after?
Light It Up picks up about six months after the events in book two of the series, Burning Bright. The plot of this book was really interesting and quite relevant with the recent legalization of marijuana in several states. I definitely found the plot believable as marijuana stores are mainly cash businesses as federal law still prohibits the sale of marijuana making it difficult for the owners of the stores to use banks. The book was full of action-packed scenes with a lot of tension and the book moves at a quick pace with little down time. There were a few scenes I was surprised by for their brutality, but overall I liked the choices the author made for the story.
In the months since Burning Bright, Peter has been working with a therapist on his claustrophobia and the “white static” that goes with it. He can now tolerate being indoors for longer periods of time, but his condition is in no way fixed and he still spends most of his time outside. During the cash run he is on that gets hijacked, we see Peter display more of his skills as he deals with the men who intercepted them. His physical strength combined with his quick thinking are certainly what saved his life. Despite his friendship with Henry being only a few months old, Peter was instantly willing to help him and was determined to find out who came after them.
My favorite character of the series, Lewis, returned in Light It Up which made me very happy. Lewis is such a mystery, I enjoy learning little bits about him in each successive book. His friendship with Peter is excellent and I enjoy their conversations. June also returns in this book and I enjoy her relationship with Peter as it’s done well for this not being a romance book (which is something as a romance reader I appreciate since that’s not always the case). I love that June is able to handle herself and doesn’t need saving as she’s perfectly capable of saving herself.
Light It Up has been my favorite book in the series thus far and I look forward to reading more from the author in the future.
**I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via the First to Read program in exchange for an honest review.**
March 14, 2020
Peter Ash is helping transport cash from the legal marijuana industry, when a gang of professional robbers hits the armored truck. (Remember how legalizing it was supposed to cut crime?) Peter manages to survive, but most of his colleagues are killed. He starts tracking down the robbers.
Some excitement.
Some excitement.
January 15, 2022
Nasty bad guys, large body counts, familiar businessman, Adam Smith reference, this was good. Peter Ash and Lewis are my favourite team, except maybe Dewey Andreas and Rob Tacoma. I read far too many thrillers, I find them comforting somehow. Quote: " the grower wasn't stupid. He'd felt the invisible hand of Palmer's manipulation.: There's the Adam Smith reference. Also, re: Palmer, he is flamboyant, wears red, white and blue outfits and his business practises are dodgy. He is also considering politics. Why does all that seem familiar?
Some of the action seemed a little far fetched, especially the gurney ride down the mountain road. Still fun. I hope to see more of Lewis in future books. The acknowledgements were as entertaining as the book itself. More Peter Ash coming up.
Some of the action seemed a little far fetched, especially the gurney ride down the mountain road. Still fun. I hope to see more of Lewis in future books. The acknowledgements were as entertaining as the book itself. More Peter Ash coming up.
January 30, 2021
Started out great. About half way through the amount of research Petrie did on cannabis grows is shown. He really does a pretty good job describing commercial grows. Petrie also brings Lewis (The Drifter) and June (Burning Bright) into the story.
The end game is what kept me from giving this four stars. It was formulistic and therefore predictable. As much as the author tried to keep the suspense going, it really wasn't going to happen
A great line from the book, though. After a car chase, early on with one of the bad guys, the attorney driving the car: "I think we should have sex. Right now, don’t you think? "
A couple more in the Peter Ash series. Not sure if I will continue.
The end game is what kept me from giving this four stars. It was formulistic and therefore predictable. As much as the author tried to keep the suspense going, it really wasn't going to happen
A great line from the book, though. After a car chase, early on with one of the bad guys, the attorney driving the car: "I think we should have sex. Right now, don’t you think? "
A couple more in the Peter Ash series. Not sure if I will continue.
March 10, 2022
Another fun one from Petrie. Action is awesome, bromance between Peter and Lewis is great, but still some cringey moments that I’m not a fan of. June constantly calling Peter jarhead is annoying as fuck.
July 22, 2017
Excellent yet again! Peter Ash is a fantastic character and his cohort of regular accomplices are just as fun. Another winning romp!
August 20, 2019
Why do i keep hearing Bob Marley songs?
"I'm gonna smoke'a de ganja until I go blind
You know I smoke'a de ganja all a de time
Smoke'a de ganja when I'm with friends"
States are legalizing marijuana but federally it's still a crime. So that means this is a cash business making it vulnerable to criminal attacks.
Peter Ash is protecting a large sum of client money when the truck is attacked. This was a sophisticated crew making Peter wonder is there more behind the robbery?
This is book 3 of a series my first. This was just okay. I tired of Peters PTSD storyline. Maybe i've read too many of these types of characters. The story was forced and formulaic. A lot of filler. I'll try book 1 to get a better feel for Peter Ash. Will Cheech and Chong make a cameo?
Here we go again with Bob Marley
"We gonna smoke'a de ganja until the very end
Whoo, ganja ganja
Whoo, ganja gun"
"I'm gonna smoke'a de ganja until I go blind
You know I smoke'a de ganja all a de time
Smoke'a de ganja when I'm with friends"
States are legalizing marijuana but federally it's still a crime. So that means this is a cash business making it vulnerable to criminal attacks.
Peter Ash is protecting a large sum of client money when the truck is attacked. This was a sophisticated crew making Peter wonder is there more behind the robbery?
This is book 3 of a series my first. This was just okay. I tired of Peters PTSD storyline. Maybe i've read too many of these types of characters. The story was forced and formulaic. A lot of filler. I'll try book 1 to get a better feel for Peter Ash. Will Cheech and Chong make a cameo?
Here we go again with Bob Marley
"We gonna smoke'a de ganja until the very end
Whoo, ganja ganja
Whoo, ganja gun"
April 12, 2019
I read The Drifter during the last days of 2018. I loved it so much, I mentally added it to my list of favourite books of the year, hailing Nick Petrie for the wonderful job he did. It wasn't long before I read Burning Bright, it didn't hit me as hard as The Drifter but I still liked it. Both books were well worth 5 stars.
Light It Up, however, is not. It's a disappointment.
It feels surprisingly unmotivated, unfocused and overall unexciting. After the first two books, which were well researched, well prepared and nicely written, Light It Up feels forced, unnatural. As if it was written only because Petrie was under contract.
It's got more, much more action than the previous books and I crave action in novels so I should have been satisfied, but the plot and the execution are weak; so the action feels like it was put into the story to cover up how unwilling Petrie was to write a third book. The whole thing feels dragged. The story and the characters are simply uninteresting and some scenes are so over the top that I thought Petrie needed to entertain himself in order to keep writing.
I know Petrie can do better and I will give Tear It Down a chance. But seeing as Light It Up was two steps backwards after The Drifter, I'm a bit heartbroken.
Light It Up, however, is not. It's a disappointment.
It feels surprisingly unmotivated, unfocused and overall unexciting. After the first two books, which were well researched, well prepared and nicely written, Light It Up feels forced, unnatural. As if it was written only because Petrie was under contract.
It's got more, much more action than the previous books and I crave action in novels so I should have been satisfied, but the plot and the execution are weak; so the action feels like it was put into the story to cover up how unwilling Petrie was to write a third book. The whole thing feels dragged. The story and the characters are simply uninteresting and some scenes are so over the top that I thought Petrie needed to entertain himself in order to keep writing.
I know Petrie can do better and I will give Tear It Down a chance. But seeing as Light It Up was two steps backwards after The Drifter, I'm a bit heartbroken.
February 8, 2018
Getting High
Nick Petrie is the best to come along in authors in a long time. Peter Ash is simply awesome. This book validates what most of us knew from his first book. Peter Ash is one tough character and this book just blasts its way to the last page with action but the storyline itself is simply fascinating. Think you know about marijuana? This tale opens it up and by the end you know more about the business and its legality than most ordinary folk. Peter's strength is truly tested here and readers are going to be looking for that next book eagerly to see what happens next.
Nick Petrie is the best to come along in authors in a long time. Peter Ash is simply awesome. This book validates what most of us knew from his first book. Peter Ash is one tough character and this book just blasts its way to the last page with action but the storyline itself is simply fascinating. Think you know about marijuana? This tale opens it up and by the end you know more about the business and its legality than most ordinary folk. Peter's strength is truly tested here and readers are going to be looking for that next book eagerly to see what happens next.
May 9, 2019
I liked the first two books in this series alot. This one was not as good. I actually put it down more than halfway through. The main character got offered sex within the first 5 minutes of meeting the only 3 women in this book. It just seemed really far fetched, cheap and unbelievable. His sidekick, Lewis is one of the coolest characters in the thriller genre and its too bad this book basically sucked.
October 28, 2017
I’ve enjoyed all 3 of this series but I think this one is my favorite! Peter Ash is a unique character who’s stubborn & quirky, maybe more likable than Jack Reacher. The details in this book make for a fascinating storyline & colorful characters round it up.
Thanks to the author for this signed early copy!:)
Thanks to the author for this signed early copy!:)
January 3, 2020
Light It Up was my first excursion into the Peter Ash series, and I'm already looking forward to the next visit. Between the empathetic hero and well-wrought action scenes, Nick Petrie offers a remarkable thriller in between insider musings on the new and only partially-tamed legal marijuana growth industry. Highly recommended.
April 30, 2023
The third in the Peter Ash series, great character development, nonstop tension, and a believable plot line that doesn’t get over-complicated.
In #2, Burning Bright, the book opens with an unforgettable scene and sequence of events high up in the Redwood trees. In Light It Up, there’s a comparable scene with Ash and his good friend Henry flying downhill on a hospital gurney.
When you dig your heels in to read several (or all) books in a series they can sometimes blur or blend together, or, come across as unremarkable. Petrie’s storylines are unique and his writing is memorable. As an Arizona native it’s also a big plus that Mexican food is Ash’s go-to cuisine🌵 🌯
In #2, Burning Bright, the book opens with an unforgettable scene and sequence of events high up in the Redwood trees. In Light It Up, there’s a comparable scene with Ash and his good friend Henry flying downhill on a hospital gurney.
When you dig your heels in to read several (or all) books in a series they can sometimes blur or blend together, or, come across as unremarkable. Petrie’s storylines are unique and his writing is memorable. As an Arizona native it’s also a big plus that Mexican food is Ash’s go-to cuisine🌵 🌯
December 11, 2019
I chose this book as my first exposure to Peter Ash, veteran with some problems mixed with healthy doses of character depth and physical prowess, ready to defend and protect. The action is off the charts wildly intense and fun to read.
This one covers the world of cannabis, growing and selling, and is sited in Colorado.
I don't have the temperament for a steady diet of this macho world, but it is fun to visit now and then. The characters populating the pages of this book are vivid and come out strong on the side of either good or evil.
Yes, it is quite a ride!
Library Loan
This one covers the world of cannabis, growing and selling, and is sited in Colorado.
I don't have the temperament for a steady diet of this macho world, but it is fun to visit now and then. The characters populating the pages of this book are vivid and come out strong on the side of either good or evil.
Yes, it is quite a ride!
Library Loan
February 20, 2018
The setting for this novel involves the cannabis market centered in Denver, just up the road a bit from my home in Colorado Springs. Lots of cash collected by dealers, looking for a secure place to hide, a lucrative target for someone to hit.
Protagonist Peter Ash, a Marine combat vet, is on the right side of the law in this novel when his good friend’s daughter needs help. She’s a cannabis dealer and her operation has been hijacked. On the opposite side of the law is Daniel Dixon, also a Marine who had once served as Ash’s battalion executive officer. Dixon is in bad shape and is looking for a big financial score along with some quality “seeds.”
There’s no shortage of action in the story although it gets a bit confusing at times with various characters having different priorities. Ash’s attorney, an attractive woman, tries to seduce him but he brushes her off. He’s in love with June who lives in Oregon. And when June learns that Peter is in trouble, she hops the first plane to Denver.
There are a few inaccuracies regarding the Marine Corps but only a former Marine would notice them. More troubling is the author’s copious use of “F Bombs” throughout the book, both in male and female dialogues and narrative comment. A little of that stuff goes a long way and should be used sparingly.
Late in the book we are treated to a chase scene as Ash heads up a Rocky Mountain road in a snowstorm. It reminded me of a similar scene with Sheriff Walt Longmire in one of Craig Johnson’s novels, only Johnson handled it much better.
Protagonist Peter Ash, a Marine combat vet, is on the right side of the law in this novel when his good friend’s daughter needs help. She’s a cannabis dealer and her operation has been hijacked. On the opposite side of the law is Daniel Dixon, also a Marine who had once served as Ash’s battalion executive officer. Dixon is in bad shape and is looking for a big financial score along with some quality “seeds.”
There’s no shortage of action in the story although it gets a bit confusing at times with various characters having different priorities. Ash’s attorney, an attractive woman, tries to seduce him but he brushes her off. He’s in love with June who lives in Oregon. And when June learns that Peter is in trouble, she hops the first plane to Denver.
There are a few inaccuracies regarding the Marine Corps but only a former Marine would notice them. More troubling is the author’s copious use of “F Bombs” throughout the book, both in male and female dialogues and narrative comment. A little of that stuff goes a long way and should be used sparingly.
Late in the book we are treated to a chase scene as Ash heads up a Rocky Mountain road in a snowstorm. It reminded me of a similar scene with Sheriff Walt Longmire in one of Craig Johnson’s novels, only Johnson handled it much better.
January 6, 2019
The ending felt rushed and I was underwhelmed with the way that one of the characters exited the story. Every female character in the text tries to have sex with Peter, which starts to feel pretty corny and silly. But decent action scenes and a good central mystery/plot.
February 9, 2019
An ok read.
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