Savage Lies

John Savage Action Thriller #1

by Peter Boland

The most dangerous man in the world is the one with nothing to live for.

John Savage keeps hearing a voice in his head telling him to end it all. It’s surprising he doesn’t hear more voices, considering the hundreds of people he’s killed in the name of democracy. That changes when a girl disappears. The police think she’s the victim of a serial killer, but John has another theory. One that turns out to be far more terrifying...

Savage Lies is a fast-paced action thriller for fans of Lee Child and David Baldacci.

Genres: Thriller

410 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 7, 2018

Reviews

[Jennifer ~ TarHeelReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

The prequel, Savage, is an important installment and introduction to John Savage, the main character. It adds understanding as to why Savage has become so hard and troubled.

The synopsis of Savage Lies is rather brief and doesn’t give anything away, so I’m trying not to give anything away apart from that in my review. That’s tough! There’s so much great story here!

John Savage was a soldier, and he carries some scars from that experience, including lasting effects on his mental health.

Where Savage makes his mark as a character is in his humor, relatability, and vulnerability. He is complex and gritty, but super intelligent and skilled at his craft. He’s been asked to help find a missing girl, and that’s just another day in the office for Savage.

Overall, I found Savage Lies to be an entertaining thrill ride! I could see this series made into a movie, and I would love to watch it! If I was a nail biter, my nails would be long gone. Savage Lies is dark, full of mystery and suspense, with a complex main character to champion.

I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[8stitches 9lives · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peter Boland, married to successful thriller writer Shalini, has expertly crafted the first book in the John Savage series, although I feel as though the prequel entitled Savage is the best introduction to the character and explains how he got to where he currently is, as I often felt that I was missing some vital background on him throughout this. I had absolutely no idea what to expect with Savage Lies. Couple this with the barely there synopsis, and you've got yourself a "take a chance on me" novel. Boy, am I glad I took that chance! It is extremely difficult to stand out in the crowded thriller market, but Boland manages to do so with aplomb, thanks in part to the sarcasm and wit that is interspersed throughout the story.

John Savage is a former SAS-soldier and like many members of the forces, he is suffering from mental health issues, hearing voices that tell him to do things he would rather not do. Boland has created a likeable, humorous and relatable character, who is ultimately flawed. He's smart, capable and knows exactly what he's doing when it comes to investigating a missing girl. There is action, suspense and mystery aplenty, and you can tell that the author has carried out meticulous research to make it as authentic and close to reality as possible. With a multitude of twists and turns, lots of banter and writing that draws you into the tale immediately, I thoroughly enjoyed this. Well written, with lots of hairy moments, the end of the novel lays the foundations for the follow-up. This promises to be a fantastic series, so I look forward to the next book.

Many thanks to Adrenalin Books for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Caz C Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Savage LIes’ is a brutal, gritty, dark and twisted thriller featuring John Savage, former SAS, used to kill people but devastated when the doom of death hits his family. His life is about to turn another angle and somehow, it is connected to a devious but rather dumb criminal transporting body parts through London…

| Introduction |
John Savage Thriller #1

Minchie has found a way to trade in his dull job as a debt collector for being part of a dark and criminal organisation. So better not mess up this important assignment, right? In the back of the (stolen) van, there are body parts wrapped in plastic for him to dispose of. His initiation test. It would not be good if the police stopped him whilst transporting these. The police sirens are coming closer and panic breaks out. Will he be so stupid to disappoint – antagonise this new employer at the first assignment?

| Storyline |
Meanwhile, John Savage is struggling to come to terms with the loss of his wife and daughter. Ignoring the voice in his head, telling him to kill himself, Savage decides to ask for help. Part of getting back on his feet is exercising and to that end, he joins a health club. One where everyone is screened, where people are willing to work up a sweat as long as it doesn’t clash with their fancy clothes and make-up. After returning home from the health club, Savage witnesses the attack on a woman. He offers her help but has no idea that the attack is the least of her problems. Her daughter has vanished. Kidnapped, her mother says. That is when Savage knows the voice in his head will have to wait – he has to find the girl whatever it takes. With as only help a young woman called Tannaz, Savage soon finds himself on a lethal mission involving vicious and devious organisations and the most appalling actions of utterly despicable criminals…

| My Thoughts |
What a great thriller! The first two chapters are intriguing and pull you right in – a stupid wanna-be criminal and real-life thug, desperate trying to do as he is told. The next moment, you are in a room with Jon Savage, deciding whether to take his life. You are drawn in already and eagerly go along on Savage’s mission. Nothing could prepare me for the shocking events Savage uncovers. I cannot divulge too much but I prayed these things only existed in the author’s ‘evil’ mind! This twisted thriller combines despicable actions and events with insights into Savage’s personal life.

Sometimes, you feel the author wants to leave nothing unexplained – I wondered if, instead of sharing the information in conversations, the facts could have been woven into the story. I loved the character of Tammaz, she is fierce and vulnerable, independent and excitable and very talented at what she does! Together, they form a power duo capable of putting every bastard behind bars! All in all, this is a strong and spine-tingling thriller in which Peter Boland is not afraid to show us the shocking depths of human depravity as well as a flawed (and because of it likeable!) protagonist in John Savage.

Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/savage...

[Diana]

When I began reading this book I felt like I was missing something, some more info about why Savage is at the point in which he is. I mean, I know he begans telling us his story pretty soon, about his daughter and his wife, and about his life as a SAS, but I mean... how did he fell over the edge? Was it bit by bit, all of a sudden? Maybe the author gives that information and I just didn't see it, but to me it felt like it would have been nice to sit a bit more on the point/s that made him who he is when we meet him, to sympatise more with him. As it is, I never did sympathise with him or like him very much, and the same happened with the woman whose daughter has disappeared.
i also never entered fully into the narrative, and ended up losing interest on the story. I feel sorry about it, as it could have potential, but Savage was a bit on the Chuck Norris side to me... and I am not a fan of his... :(

[Kath Middleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you have an ex-SAS member with a wrong to right, you know you’re going to be in for an adventure and a thriller. All you need is for it to be a good story, well told. Here we have it all. John Savage thinks he knows what’s going on when a girl disappears. We think we know, too. This is a masterful bit of storytelling and I really enjoyed the way it unfolded as we got to the truth. By 90% of the novel I thought it was all over and we were having the ends wrapped up for us but the action never stopped. Highly recommended.

[Alicia Huxtable · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, so I got through the first few chapters and my mind was set on what the deal was, what was happening and all that. But wow, so not what I was expecting. Savage is an awesome character, as is Tannaz. The medical details in the book must have taken some decent research too. A really great read with a few gut churning scenes....... so worth it

[Nicola Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know when reviewers say they couldn’t put a book down and you think to yourself...really? Well, it happened to me. Within a busy week, I took every opportunity to read this thriller. Took an instant liking to John Savage and always love the contrast between an older man with super combat skills, which we normally attribute to a younger man. Just because you’re old, doesn’t mean you’re cold.
There is a prequel giving the reader the back story on Savage and I’m reading that next. He is fighting his own demons (very evil ones at that) and you find yourself really rooting for him to overcome them. He deserves to live to fight another day. However, as much as I found it uncomfortable to read about his challenges, I think it added a vulnerability to his character that helps you to warm to him.
I will be reading the next one, as I enjoy reading a series. I would highly recommend this one. Right up my street.

[Melissa Borsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the fast-paced action and suspense of this story. I liked the character John Savage and I believe each book will become better than the last. I did find it a bit annoying that all the "bad" guys were always overly cooperative and conveniently explained everything John needed to know in pretty much every situation he was in. That being said, I do look forward to the next John Savage adventure.

[Els · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a fan of darts, you probably know the chant 'If you love the darts, stand up'. Well, I would like to change the lyrics and sing 'If you love John Savage, stand up' and I was standing up the whole time and cheering him on!

I just love this character. He is ruthless for the baddies, has a soft spot for the victims and he is utterly likeable. He made me laugh with his sarcasm and the plans he makes are top of the bill.

And then there was Jeff Perkins. He made me smile too. He is great.

In the beginning of the book, I did not quite know which the direction the author was going to take me, but boy oh boy, it was soooo good and action packed just the way I like it. 

John Savage certainly has won a place in my heart. I took me a while before I could find the time to read this first book, but I would like to shout from the rooftops how amazing it is. Giving less than 5 stars would be a crime.

Thank you, Peter Boland

[RiverShore · Rating 4 out of 5]

John Savage has been through it all: Special Forces missions, the loss of his family, and now he finds himself teetering on the brink until he is faced with a new mission. A young woman disappears and he senses that there is more to it than the police realize. As he follows a shadowy trail to find her, he gets help from Tannaz, a cyber geek who is able to hack anything. Soon, he finds himself getting caught up in a much larger plot, one he didn't see coming. I enjoyed this thriller by writer Peter Boland. It had plenty of twists and included enough details to make it feasible if not believable. The main character is strong but not invincible which gives him a kind of vulnerability to which readers can easily relate. A great read!!

[Andy Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now I'm not much of a reader, but I'm trying. I found this having come across the charity shop detectives, and after reading someone else's review of this thought, I'd give it a go. I was not disappointed.

I remember after reading the first chapter, I wasn't too sure with Minchies opening, not what I was expecting at all. But here we are a week later, and it's potentially the best book I have read.

I formed a picture of what Savage looked like and found his little conversations with Jeff really refreshing ( not that it was written in that way, but it broke it up a little for me).

There were twists and sub-twists, characters you thought would be one thing, and then turned out different.

I need to get hold of the rest of the series now as that was bloody brilliant.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the second in the series first and enjoyed that immensely however now having read number 1 more things fall in to place as to why John Savage is the way he is. He is ex SAS and has been involved in conflicts and seen things that have caused him to have major Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, he has also lost his wife and daughter which adds to his mental anguish. He doesn't really care if he lives or dies so when he has to tackle people traffickers and white supremacists he gives it everything he's got, making for a roller coaster of an adventure thriller which will leave you breathless.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great storyline, non stop action.
Likeable guy, he may hear voices in his head but nothing dodgy about his character.
The other characters who pop into this tale to help build up the tension are very well blended and may be minor but are so important to stock it up.

My 1st book by this author, won't be my last, especially with Savage as main character.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this! It was like an episode of 24 with Savage as an English Jack Bauer!
I can't wait for more of Savages adventures.

[Samantha Curtis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh how I loved John savage. I was a bit sceptical about this book when it involved some sas soldier and went into operations etc. Normally that’s not my think but I actually really enjoyed this book

I really grown fond of John and I really hope there is a follow up

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peter brings a real, broken yet adept, retired yet still got it, hero to life in this truly wonderful action thriller. He leaves you yearning for more of what makes John Savage all that he is. A wonderful glimpse into the life of a human superhero with a servants heart and attitude using all he is and all he's learned to make his world a little better place. Move over Jason Bourne, John Savage is in the house!

[Sophie Bristow Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered this new author when I saw "Savage Lies" cropping up all over Facebook. It's a break neck speed race of a read. Full of action and intrigue. It kept me glued to the pages from the word go. The only concept I wasn't keen on was the terrorism whifch I always avoid if I know it's in a book. It didn't dwell on it too much and the rest of the book was highly enjoyable. In fact as soon as I'd finished it I downloaded the novella which tells you a bit more about the exciting John Savage. I look forward to reading more in this series.

[Diane Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I really like the character Savage. I would like to see him develop more as time goes on, but the story intrigued me right away. Suspenseful, touching and plenty of twists. All that you could ask for in a great story. I believe this will be a very good series. Very enjoyable.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Action-Packed Thriller Stars!!!

I was given this book in turn for an honest review.

When John decides to battle the voices in his head, he finds himself on a mission to find a missing girl. What John discovers is a much darker operation. Has John Savage got what it takes to rescue the missing girl?

Peter Boland has written a very clever, intriguing, action-packed story. I found the story a little slow going to begin with; I felt like it had no real direction. However, I soon discovered this was setting the scene for a story that had more bangs than most firework displays. The information the leading character John Savage narrates to us, plays its part as the story progresses and soon it all makes sense, those details are needed, those details help make the story.

Savage Lies is a captivating story, you can feel the adrenalin pumping within your veins as you follow John Savage on his mission. Your mind is a whirl as you try to guess what is going to happen next, and again and again you find yourself surprised at the twist and turns this story takes, almost as if you’re fearing for your own life.

There a couple of moments within this story that felt like they didn’t quite fall into place, they seemed a little too fabricated, although of course this story is fiction, things for me need to be relatable in some way or seem realistic. However, this did not draw away from the excellence of this story, this is purely my personal feelings on certain aspects of the story.

Without any doubt Peter Boland has found himself a fan, and I look forward to reading more of his books.

This story is for all criminal, thriller readers and those looking for an action packed, thriller adventure.

[Sue Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savage lies by Peter Bolland.
An absolutely fantastic read. I loved the story and the characters apart from minchie.  Savage is an ex s a s he is very good at finding people who don't want to be found. He is going to help Theresa a woman he saw being beat by minchie.  So he's going to help her find her daughter.  Who is missing.  Can he find her and get theresas money back from the dodgy PI?
My favourite part was at the gym club. I loved how savage was quick to get things and information.  How he got Brett to give him membership when he didn't want to. I also loved how savage helps Theresa. He's my favourite character. I love the little conversations in haves with his voice in the head. I loved how he was when he was with Stu Rich and Patrick in the toilet. But I didn't like Patrick at all. Savage was my favourite character. I loved Tannaz how she helped savage. How she found out who was really behind it all. very cleverly written. I really didn't want this book to end. I am looking forward to reading more from Peter. This is a must read with lots of action bullets flying.  Absolutely loved it.  Highly recommended.  5*. Would give more if I could. 

[buzy_reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’d recommend reading the prequel Savage before reading Savage
Lies to gain a better understanding of who John Savage is. I personally think the first 9 chapters of Savage Lies should have been included in the prequel to assist with the transitional changes in John’s career move.

When a trained killer retires from the SAS he sets out for a life as a civilian. He’s retired, yet still capable of confronting dangerous men. John’s skills get put to use by bringing down dangerous men.
I wasn’t expecting John’s character to quit his job and become a retired civilian. Even as a civilian John’s life is anything but dull. However, even with his expertise and knowledge in the SAS I didn’t find this to be the fast paced story as indicated in the description. I never felt myself get immersed in the story. I wasn’t motivated to read each chapter, but I was determined to finish it. Some of the chapters ended abruptly not transitioning well into the next chapter.

I suppose my definition for highly entertaining varies from most other readers. There was action, but it wasn’t action packed nor was it fast paced. I found one scene to stretch on for far too long. This story went in a completely different direction than I expected: a political one.

On a positive note, Mr. Boland impressed me with his hacker knowledge. He is a meticulous writer making sure to note every detail. The writing was a bit repetitive in some areas. The process for obtaining information was lengthy. I appreciated all the effort put into researching SAS training it was quite extensive.

I liked John Savage’s character he had a sarcastic personality that won me over. His skills were exceptional. He was good at casing out a scene and reading people. He was a well rounded character who fit the role as an SAS agent. He was a clever negotiator with a sharp attitude.

[Jade Simcox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book by this author I have read and it wont be my last. I really enjoyed this action packed story. It reminded me of a Jack Reacher (book) / Taken with Liam Neeson (movie)
I will say it took me ages to get into the story, the first chapter gripped me but then I quickly lost interest. Until around the 30% mark. Most people would probably have marked it as a "did not finish" but for me I continued on and I'm glad I did. I thought I had the story figured out but then it took this crazy turn and I didn't know what to believe.
John Savage was a hard man to like. I wish there had been more explanation as to why he ended up with depression. I can understand it come from being a SAS solider, but more explanation would of been good. I still don't think even after reading the story that I actually like him, I enjoyed the story a lot more then the characters involved. I didn't see the ending with DR Stevens at all. I thought after he had come back to the UK that would be it. But another twist was thrown into the story.
I'm excited to read more about Savage's adventures in the future.

[Monica Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I started this book and a scant few hours later, I had finished (well, it was the next day, but it felt pretty quick to me!). It was the first book by this author I have read but it certainly won't be the last.

John Savage is an ex-SAS soldier and an all-round nice bloke. He is nearly 60, but in good shape and he misses absolutely nothing about the world around him. I liked his character SO much, I was cheering him on all the way!!

He joins a gym in an effort to get back into shape and goes on the hunt for a missing girl, using all the skills he has learnt along the way. He gets to know an amazing computer hacker called Tannaz, who couldn't be more different to John, but somehow they get on really well and their skills complement each other.

This is one heck of a rollercoaster ride and the tension throughout the book is palpable. I loved it and can't wait to read the next book in the series!

5 well-deserved stars from me.

[Tere J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed Savage Lies. It was not my usually genre, and I'm glad I branched out. It had enough suspense, mystery, twisted humor in it to keep me engaged, and better yet, wanting more! The story was intriguing, and minus spoiler, there was plenty of action happening. I honestly wasn't sure where it would go - how it would come back and complete the 'circle of the story' if that makes sense. I honestly laughed out loud, cringed, cheered, and for a book to bring out all these emotions while reading, that deserved a 5 star review IMHO. I could totally see this, if it was a movie! This was definitely not a cliffhanger book, so you want a story and a thrilling ride, by the time you finish it, you'll be satisfied - but want more! I loved the character of Tannaz. I hope to see more John Savage & Tannaz in the future!

[Joanne Cartwright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a tricky book to review without giving too much away and spoiling the plot for others!

John Savage is up there on my all time favourite lead characters list. It is easy to imagine him in the flesh as he is so well written. His backstory comes out in snippets, the ex -solider with bad war experiences, the voice in his head trying to sway his behaviour and perhaps going some way to explaining his personality.
John Savage is a quiet thinker but also a brutal fighter and the juxtaposition of his moods make for an excellent, exciting read as he investigates the disappearance of a young woman only to uncover a new horror at each turn.
I thoroughly recommend letting John into your life- he will stay with you long after you close the last pages of the book.

[Paula D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savage Lies.
I was given an advance copy in return for an honest review. (No spoilers.)
Must say I loved it. Compelling and pacy with characters that have real substance.
Savage is rough and unbalanced but his sense of truth and justice makes him a gritty and very interesting hero. He tries to help when he sees a lady in a difficult situation and from there, the road he has to travel is a very dark and dangerous one. Great descriptive writing throughout brought the story alive. Savage and his computer geek side kick make a brilliant team. I give Savage Lies a hearty 5* and will definitely be recommending as one of the best books I have read this year.

[CAROLYN · Rating 3 out of 5]

SAVAGE LIES was a different kind of action book than I have read before as it had light twisted, sarcastic humor throughout the book, (which I love). The main character Savage is very likeable, he is tough, but tender. A man battling voices in his head throughout the story which is fun to read the banter going back and forth. The storyline was not too complex, so I found it easy to follow and interesting and entertaining up till the last few chapters and I started to feel bored. Other than that part I was impressed with the book. I kept thinking this is a great thriller to read for those who need a break from the darkness that most thrillers bring.

[Myreadbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank Netgalley and Adrenalin Books for this partnership.

I was immediately attracted to the blanket: you see a man from behind walking in the fog.

There is John Savage who hears only one voice in his head, a miracle given the number of people he has killed for his country. But everything will change when a girl disappears, everyone will think of a serial killer except John will think of the worst....

A thriller read in one go so much I hooked" on the character of John and the story so captivating and full of suspense and twists and turns. Looking forward to reading on.

[Nic Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This week I found Peter Boland's books and I'm so glad I took a chance on them. Absolutely fantastic from start to finish!

I have been a huge fan of Peter's wife Shalini Boland for years and now to find her husband is also a very talented write is amazing.

This book definitely opens up this series with a bang. We are introduced to John Savage, who is an exciting character. He has many flaws, including PTSD from being an SAS soldier, and finds himself in some dark places, but he is also a kind man, with grit and determination, and the integrity to do the right thing, he's also an awesome fighter and a relentless detective. I loved reading about him. His unwitting side kick Tannaz is also a brilliant addition to the series. They're such an unlikely team but it works really well, she's a talented hacker and her skills come in extremely handy! I loved seeing their relationship blossom and am looking forward to watching their relationship grow.

The storyline moves fast, and is shocking, lots of twists and unexpected outcomes, things aren't all tied up in a neat bow and I love that about this series.

I went straight on to reading book 2 after reading this in two days, and I loved that one just as much. I hope they keep coming.

[Brad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Impressive Thriller

Great storyline. When I thought I had it figured out, the story took a turn in another direction. Savage is a fine character and handles himself well. His tekkie partner is a cool addition to the book. The last scene in the health club office drug on for a bit, which is the reason for the less than perfect review. It
Is a page turner right up there with Reacher!