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DJ Slaughter #1
Slaughter: Origin Story
...Are there any Kindle Unlimited books like Jack Reacher, Mitch Rapp, and Jack Ryan that deserve a spot on my Kindle? Yes. Yes there are!...
...A fast-paced action adventure series that only left me wanting more...
Seeing his wife and children slain before his eyes has him living a hermit lifestyle in Nowhere, Colorado. But time has a way of changing you, altering you, turning you into something else.
They say change is good. But is that always true?When a chance encounter in a parking lot results in bloodshed, he finds himself on the run from both friends and enemies. It also has him facing off against the demons of his past. To end this once and for all, he must confront both his pursuers and himself.
The harsh reality is that no one knows who he really is, and neither does he.On his vigilante quest for justice and revenge, he encounters two unlikely allies. One might help him fix his damaged soul. He could see himself choking the other.
This series because takes the genre in a different direction.See why fans are flocking to Slaughter.Get your copy now!
...Pretty much has it all. Suspense, mystery, loads of action, and an antihero you want for a next-door neighbor...
...My new favorite hero...
...I assumed this hero was going to be like all of the rest. I was WRONG! It reads like a John Wick movie at times. And it is obvious the author knows his guns and his combat. No more unrealistic firearms or gun battles where there is an endless supply of ammunition. Our vigilante justice warrior even has the discipline to count his shots as they are being fired. I have never seen that before. And, there's a whole lot more in this series you haven't seen before. It's like the author tossed the genre on its head and came up with something else.
About time...
...A fast-paced action adventure series that only left me wanting more...
Seeing his wife and children slain before his eyes has him living a hermit lifestyle in Nowhere, Colorado. But time has a way of changing you, altering you, turning you into something else.
They say change is good. But is that always true?When a chance encounter in a parking lot results in bloodshed, he finds himself on the run from both friends and enemies. It also has him facing off against the demons of his past. To end this once and for all, he must confront both his pursuers and himself.
The harsh reality is that no one knows who he really is, and neither does he.On his vigilante quest for justice and revenge, he encounters two unlikely allies. One might help him fix his damaged soul. He could see himself choking the other.
This series because takes the genre in a different direction.See why fans are flocking to Slaughter.Get your copy now!
...Pretty much has it all. Suspense, mystery, loads of action, and an antihero you want for a next-door neighbor...
...My new favorite hero...
...I assumed this hero was going to be like all of the rest. I was WRONG! It reads like a John Wick movie at times. And it is obvious the author knows his guns and his combat. No more unrealistic firearms or gun battles where there is an endless supply of ammunition. Our vigilante justice warrior even has the discipline to count his shots as they are being fired. I have never seen that before. And, there's a whole lot more in this series you haven't seen before. It's like the author tossed the genre on its head and came up with something else.
About time...
283 pages, Paperback
Published June 9, 2017
585 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
James Beltz
22 books89 followersJames is a thriller writer with influences from Clancy, Flynn, Child, and others. He's been featured in articles for Recoil Magazine and Off-Grid. Recoil listed him featured him in an article entitled: "Best Selling Authors Who Get It Right." High praise indeed.
Born and raised in Louisiana, but currently residing in Oklahoma, James draws from his southern roots in his storytelling, creating a protagonist that is quiet and reserved, drawing on a commonsense approach to crime-fighting. The DJ Slaughter character, for example, is easily relatable. You know who he is pretty quick and can see yourself in his struggles. In a world of over-the-top heroes, James is a breath of fresh air.
James continues to write his popular DJ Slaughter series but is rumored to be secretly working on something exciting and new in the background. We can't wait to see what he's cooked up for us all.
Contact info, a full list of books, and his homemade gumbo recipe can be found at www.JamesBeltz.com
Born and raised in Louisiana, but currently residing in Oklahoma, James draws from his southern roots in his storytelling, creating a protagonist that is quiet and reserved, drawing on a commonsense approach to crime-fighting. The DJ Slaughter character, for example, is easily relatable. You know who he is pretty quick and can see yourself in his struggles. In a world of over-the-top heroes, James is a breath of fresh air.
James continues to write his popular DJ Slaughter series but is rumored to be secretly working on something exciting and new in the background. We can't wait to see what he's cooked up for us all.
Contact info, a full list of books, and his homemade gumbo recipe can be found at www.JamesBeltz.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
February 10, 2018
An Amazing Adventure with a New Hero, DJ Slaughter
What an exciting entrance into an adventurous, action-packed series this book is!! I started reading and could not put it down, the tragic back story of Slaughter starts your emotions on a rollercoaster , and keeps ratcheting the suspense up until a scary ending...
The author does a great job keeping readers in the know about weapons, of which many are used during Slaughter's effort to rid the world of an evil man. This man rules a big crime family, and has his hands around police and government officials, even the FBI.
All characters are well-written,there are some to like and some to hate, with others to just fear! A thoroughly enjoyable ride with some wonderful people, I hated having the story end!#
What an exciting entrance into an adventurous, action-packed series this book is!! I started reading and could not put it down, the tragic back story of Slaughter starts your emotions on a rollercoaster , and keeps ratcheting the suspense up until a scary ending...
The author does a great job keeping readers in the know about weapons, of which many are used during Slaughter's effort to rid the world of an evil man. This man rules a big crime family, and has his hands around police and government officials, even the FBI.
All characters are well-written,there are some to like and some to hate, with others to just fear! A thoroughly enjoyable ride with some wonderful people, I hated having the story end!#
May 21, 2019
i don't usually write reviews, so i'll try to keep this short and to the point with the hope that others don't make the mistake that i did. i got sucked into this free book by an amazon unlimited offer after reading the description that said i would love it if i love all the other authors they listed. all of them were NYT bestsellers for the action/thriller genre. i think it was misleading and insulting to those authors to include this book among them. this is no NYT bestseller.
the story in this book is fine. i kind of enjoyed it despite the numerous ludicrous chance occurrences, frequent preachy references to bible verses/a deity paving the way to success/approving of the hero exterminating a mob boss's gang all while having the flavor of a self-righteous, holier-than-thou, right-wing gun-nut "christian" without exactly saying so.
but oh, the grammar and the sentence structure. omg. get a proofreader and a copy editor. it was like reading text to speech at a 6th grade level. it destroyed the experience for me and i can't continue. the perspective frequently changed to tell both sides of a story form good guy/bad guy's view point. i could have skipped those pages since it was like reading the same exact same thing twice. unnecessary and frustrating to read.
i guess i'm done. i wish it was better and i hope the author learns and improves. 1 star so i remember to avoid this series/author in the future and maybe you should too. you can decide for yourself.
the story in this book is fine. i kind of enjoyed it despite the numerous ludicrous chance occurrences, frequent preachy references to bible verses/a deity paving the way to success/approving of the hero exterminating a mob boss's gang all while having the flavor of a self-righteous, holier-than-thou, right-wing gun-nut "christian" without exactly saying so.
but oh, the grammar and the sentence structure. omg. get a proofreader and a copy editor. it was like reading text to speech at a 6th grade level. it destroyed the experience for me and i can't continue. the perspective frequently changed to tell both sides of a story form good guy/bad guy's view point. i could have skipped those pages since it was like reading the same exact same thing twice. unnecessary and frustrating to read.
i guess i'm done. i wish it was better and i hope the author learns and improves. 1 star so i remember to avoid this series/author in the future and maybe you should too. you can decide for yourself.
September 3, 2019
If you like thrillers...Gray man, Mitch Rapp, etc try this book. Just lay in some air freshener for the lingering smell of gun-smoke, blood and fire. Then settle back with a cup of coffee, a glass of iced tea, a beer, a Coke, (a Jack and Coke) or whatever and enjoy.
Brain candy...or as noted for other thrillers possibly brain cheese burger and fries of whatever. Enjoy.
Recommended.
Brain candy...or as noted for other thrillers possibly brain cheese burger and fries of whatever. Enjoy.
Recommended.
June 21, 2020
Vengeance at its harshest!
DJ’s wife and twins were brutally murdered by home invaders. Following their deaths he sold everything and moved into a ranch in the middle of nowhere in Colorado. He taught himself how to shoot and began collecting guns, hiding most in a secreted room in his house. He went to meet some people he had been in touch with to buy some new guns and they attempted to rob him. They also followed him to his home with plans to finish the robbery and kill him. They also contacted their leader’s father, a major gangland character in their area. He sent a team of twenty mercenaries to help them. I won’t go any further into the story because of spoilers, but will say it was fast, decisive and violent. Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-galley for an honest review.
DJ’s wife and twins were brutally murdered by home invaders. Following their deaths he sold everything and moved into a ranch in the middle of nowhere in Colorado. He taught himself how to shoot and began collecting guns, hiding most in a secreted room in his house. He went to meet some people he had been in touch with to buy some new guns and they attempted to rob him. They also followed him to his home with plans to finish the robbery and kill him. They also contacted their leader’s father, a major gangland character in their area. He sent a team of twenty mercenaries to help them. I won’t go any further into the story because of spoilers, but will say it was fast, decisive and violent. Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-galley for an honest review.
June 18, 2019
I wanted to like this but could not. This seems to be written by the NRA...I want a story with character development - and a main character who does not abandon others (like the owner of the diner) - who doesn't run. This book seemed all about guns guns guns...no strategies...main character was not appealing...not sure how this book gets rated so well when there are so many better characters like The Nowhere Man, Victor the Assassin, the Gray Man, etc. Not even close.
April 1, 2020
Slaughter Origin Story is not a book for the faint-hearted.
David Slaughter, AKA DJ Slaughter, is a man with an incredibly tragic past who has secluded himself into the woods, away from the world. After an emotional turn of events, he decides to take up Gun Shooting as a hobby, training himself and getting really good at it. His other hobby of buying weapons from other collectors or weapon enthusiasts, launches this story into a full- blown action thriller, where DJ faces against a trained group of tactical soldiers for hire. The early parts of the book show DJ to be hopelessly out prepared and outgunned, but DJ is absolutely crafty. He does his last name “Slaughter” justice as he methodically takes out the trained group of assassins, starting off with only a rock and finishing the long and brutal sequence of headshots and nonstop firefight on top. I commend Mr. Beltz’s command of weapon details, showing great investment in research, which pays off to create an authentic grounded vibe of the world DJ Slaughter lives in. Since DJ is shown to be a gun enthusiast, the details of weapons add to gunslinging vibe of the story. The story is not confined to Hunter vs Hunted in the woods, but it goes beyond to urban settings and narratives involving FBI agents and a Mafia Boss along with memorable action sequences with twists and turns until the very last moment. The cliffhanger would make anyone click on the buy button for Book 2.
One of the best aspects of the book is the relationships between DJ and Abbi. Abbi is the biggest reason for DJ to make it through the seemingly impossible odds. I really enjoyed the dynamic between the two. It felt right to have those two get together even in the short span of time.
While it may seem implausible for a self trained civilian to take on methodical soldiers, it can be construed as DJ being underestimated by his adversaries, along with some well-timed intervention by fate and coincidence, just enough to keep the narrative interesting without falling flat.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading the second book in the series. DJ Slaughter has the makings of a great new series to read.
David Slaughter, AKA DJ Slaughter, is a man with an incredibly tragic past who has secluded himself into the woods, away from the world. After an emotional turn of events, he decides to take up Gun Shooting as a hobby, training himself and getting really good at it. His other hobby of buying weapons from other collectors or weapon enthusiasts, launches this story into a full- blown action thriller, where DJ faces against a trained group of tactical soldiers for hire. The early parts of the book show DJ to be hopelessly out prepared and outgunned, but DJ is absolutely crafty. He does his last name “Slaughter” justice as he methodically takes out the trained group of assassins, starting off with only a rock and finishing the long and brutal sequence of headshots and nonstop firefight on top. I commend Mr. Beltz’s command of weapon details, showing great investment in research, which pays off to create an authentic grounded vibe of the world DJ Slaughter lives in. Since DJ is shown to be a gun enthusiast, the details of weapons add to gunslinging vibe of the story. The story is not confined to Hunter vs Hunted in the woods, but it goes beyond to urban settings and narratives involving FBI agents and a Mafia Boss along with memorable action sequences with twists and turns until the very last moment. The cliffhanger would make anyone click on the buy button for Book 2.
One of the best aspects of the book is the relationships between DJ and Abbi. Abbi is the biggest reason for DJ to make it through the seemingly impossible odds. I really enjoyed the dynamic between the two. It felt right to have those two get together even in the short span of time.
While it may seem implausible for a self trained civilian to take on methodical soldiers, it can be construed as DJ being underestimated by his adversaries, along with some well-timed intervention by fate and coincidence, just enough to keep the narrative interesting without falling flat.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading the second book in the series. DJ Slaughter has the makings of a great new series to read.
June 29, 2018
Simply Splendid!! If you like Action Thrillers, then you will love this book. It has a wonderful amount of action throughout this story, and you can’t help but like the main character, DJ. I especially like that I couldn’t guess what was going to happen from one moment to the next. This is a series that I will certainly be continuing with.
David John ‘DJ’ Slaughter thought his life was on track when he chose to join the Navy. He enjoyed his job as a medic and thought it was going to be a great career, so it was quite a shock when he was severely injured, and he had no other choice than to take the medical discharge. The only bright light was meeting his future wife before he got out. Having children with her was the icing on the cake, and his life was once again heading in the right direction. However, life has a way of kicking some people in the teeth, and Joe’s world was completely shattered when he lost his wife and kids. Hiding away on a remote property was his way of dealing with his heartbreak. However, life has a way of finding you, and when DJ is double crossed things turn deadly very quickly. What people don’t realise is that while DJ has been hidden way, he has slowly been turning himself into a fighting machine. Now he’s angry and he’s going to fight back. Great characters and an interesting plot definitely made this an enjoyable book to read.
David John ‘DJ’ Slaughter thought his life was on track when he chose to join the Navy. He enjoyed his job as a medic and thought it was going to be a great career, so it was quite a shock when he was severely injured, and he had no other choice than to take the medical discharge. The only bright light was meeting his future wife before he got out. Having children with her was the icing on the cake, and his life was once again heading in the right direction. However, life has a way of kicking some people in the teeth, and Joe’s world was completely shattered when he lost his wife and kids. Hiding away on a remote property was his way of dealing with his heartbreak. However, life has a way of finding you, and when DJ is double crossed things turn deadly very quickly. What people don’t realise is that while DJ has been hidden way, he has slowly been turning himself into a fighting machine. Now he’s angry and he’s going to fight back. Great characters and an interesting plot definitely made this an enjoyable book to read.
January 9, 2019
poor ending
I do not support authors who continue books at the end . Period .
Cheap ploy to move more books. Putting this author on my do not read list.
I do not support authors who continue books at the end . Period .
Cheap ploy to move more books. Putting this author on my do not read list.
September 24, 2018
Caution this novel is not for light hearted.
David John Slaughter is a lonely person, has lost his wife and two lovely children. Secludes himself from the world and takes up collection of fire arms. One of Big Chuck gang sells antique fire arms to DJ and next time they try to grab his money. A big mistake by Big Chuck who had chosen to cheat DJ.
They try to take over DJ’s money and other fire arms hidden in his home. Injured DJ escapes and he has to save his collection, it is an arduous task as around 20 to 25 trained persons are waiting for his arrival. He kills everybody with surgical precision.
That’s not the end, as Big Chuck wants to prove who is he, from informers from FBI Big Chuck tracks DJ and tries to kill him again but DJ becomes alert and joins hand with another untainted FBI agent.
Big Chuck makes a master stroke of kidnapping their loved ones. Did DJ saved them? What happened to Big Chuck and his empire?
Absolutely page turner novel an action adventure, we will surely like DJ and his special skills. Use and terms of weapons given in the book tells us the knowledge possessed by the author James Beltz.
Towards half of the novel the author introduces one character which does not fit in the story but in the end that character is the real twist to the novel. The climax is cliff-hanger.
A must buy book for action adventure fans.
http://www.chromaring.com/2018/09/sla...
David John Slaughter is a lonely person, has lost his wife and two lovely children. Secludes himself from the world and takes up collection of fire arms. One of Big Chuck gang sells antique fire arms to DJ and next time they try to grab his money. A big mistake by Big Chuck who had chosen to cheat DJ.
They try to take over DJ’s money and other fire arms hidden in his home. Injured DJ escapes and he has to save his collection, it is an arduous task as around 20 to 25 trained persons are waiting for his arrival. He kills everybody with surgical precision.
That’s not the end, as Big Chuck wants to prove who is he, from informers from FBI Big Chuck tracks DJ and tries to kill him again but DJ becomes alert and joins hand with another untainted FBI agent.
Big Chuck makes a master stroke of kidnapping their loved ones. Did DJ saved them? What happened to Big Chuck and his empire?
Absolutely page turner novel an action adventure, we will surely like DJ and his special skills. Use and terms of weapons given in the book tells us the knowledge possessed by the author James Beltz.
Towards half of the novel the author introduces one character which does not fit in the story but in the end that character is the real twist to the novel. The climax is cliff-hanger.
A must buy book for action adventure fans.
http://www.chromaring.com/2018/09/sla...
July 25, 2018
If you're wondering if this book is worth your time then maybe this will answer your question. I bought the second book in the series as soon as I finished this one.
DJ is a bad, bad man and I mean that as a compliment.
DJ is trying to recover from a heart-wrenching tragedy. He's moved to an isolated valley just trying to live his life. When a routine transaction turns into a bloodbath his quiet life is shattered for good.
The reference to Jack Reacher and Mitch Rapp in the book description is actually inaccurate. DJ is really a mix of the two. You have Reacher's singular force of nature mixed with Rapp's deadly intent and willingness to visit extreme violence on enemies.
The book was recommended to me so I really had no idea what I was getting into. I loved it. I'm always looking for books in this genre that can get my heart racing while making it impossible to put down.
The only negative thing to say about the book is that it has a cliffhanger ending. If it wasn't for the fact that the second book is already available I would have been much harder on the rating. It had all the elements any action/thriller fans look for and it's a series with another book out to fill your binging needs.
DJ is a bad, bad man and I mean that as a compliment.
DJ is trying to recover from a heart-wrenching tragedy. He's moved to an isolated valley just trying to live his life. When a routine transaction turns into a bloodbath his quiet life is shattered for good.
The reference to Jack Reacher and Mitch Rapp in the book description is actually inaccurate. DJ is really a mix of the two. You have Reacher's singular force of nature mixed with Rapp's deadly intent and willingness to visit extreme violence on enemies.
The book was recommended to me so I really had no idea what I was getting into. I loved it. I'm always looking for books in this genre that can get my heart racing while making it impossible to put down.
The only negative thing to say about the book is that it has a cliffhanger ending. If it wasn't for the fact that the second book is already available I would have been much harder on the rating. It had all the elements any action/thriller fans look for and it's a series with another book out to fill your binging needs.
May 14, 2021
A few more swipes by an editor would have tightened up the action to make this really move, would have cleared up the moments of explaining instead of showing, and would have cleaned up the typos. With that said-I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller. DJ is in an interesting hero, who accomplishes amazing things in this, his origin story. The supporting characters really stand out in this story: Brett add just the right amount of humor, and Abbi is literally and figuratively a kick-ass character! Te preview of the second book was a welcome treat!. Definitely worth a read!
August 21, 2021
An exciting fast-paced action/thriller that is a promising introduction to a good series. Another look from an editor could strengthen and tighten this well-written book.
July 29, 2017
I am going to have to start out by saying, I have never been one to read books riddled with excessive violence. It isn't that I'm necessarily opposed to blood and bullets, but most of the books I tend to read just don't have a lot of blood and guts. This definitely had the most blood-filled pages that I've read, and I have this to say about it: If every book in the action/thriller genres was handled as this one was, I would have a new favorite genre.
The protagonist, DJ Slaughter, is a man with a tragic past. After suffering a major loss, he retreats into a life of solitude and pours his energy into the one thing that can take his mind off of his past: collecting and training with firearms. In order to not give away main parts of the story, I will have to give you very few details about this character other than the fact that he was one of extreme character-development. You watch him change throughout the book in a realistic transition. His life and the events in this book may cause you to ask yourself questions. Lots of questions. The one that I asked myself over and over again was, "Could you see yourself handling life the way DJ did after (insert events)?" My answer? It's not that far-fetched. Could I see my husband handling things the way DJ did? Yes. Because when bad things happen to good people, they tend to attempt to take what's left of their existence into their own hands. And with DJ's military past, family-man nature, and proficiency with a gun.... well, what did you expect him to do?
The supporting characters were folks that I'd know well if I saw them. Brett Foster's character was sculpted from a clear picture in the author's mind, and he executed it perfectly. The relationships between DJ, Brett, and Abbi (another supporting character) just made sense. In many books, you find yourself trying to piece together who-is-who, and remember the relationship details between characters. Some stories are hard to follow due to the overload of detail and the fast pace of the book. This is not one of those books. If the book had been given a good editing session before publishing, I'd never have guessed this was James' first novel. It was just that good, and the characters were that memorable.
The edition of the book I read has since been updated, so I can't say for current readers what the content looks like as far as editing goes. There were many punctuation errors and a few odd and end grammatical errors, but as an author I was very impressed with the skill and proficiency Mr. Beltz showed. And I'm not saying this as considering the fact that he didn't have an editor, and this being his first novel. The fact that the book was as enjoyable as it was being unpolished shows the potential the author has and the worth of the story itself. I could easily see this made into an action movie. One I'd actually go see--and that says a LOT! The author is deserving of every one of the stars given in this review. Yes, more attention to detail (as far as errors are concerned) needs to go into the revised edition of Slaughter: Origin Story and his future novels, but if you learn the author's personal journey, how he went about writing and completing this novel, and the love he has for his literary baby, you will have no trouble falling in love with it yourself. I would love signed copies on my bookshelf, errors included, if need be. It has just left that big of a mark on this reader. It hit its mark.
The protagonist, DJ Slaughter, is a man with a tragic past. After suffering a major loss, he retreats into a life of solitude and pours his energy into the one thing that can take his mind off of his past: collecting and training with firearms. In order to not give away main parts of the story, I will have to give you very few details about this character other than the fact that he was one of extreme character-development. You watch him change throughout the book in a realistic transition. His life and the events in this book may cause you to ask yourself questions. Lots of questions. The one that I asked myself over and over again was, "Could you see yourself handling life the way DJ did after (insert events)?" My answer? It's not that far-fetched. Could I see my husband handling things the way DJ did? Yes. Because when bad things happen to good people, they tend to attempt to take what's left of their existence into their own hands. And with DJ's military past, family-man nature, and proficiency with a gun.... well, what did you expect him to do?
The supporting characters were folks that I'd know well if I saw them. Brett Foster's character was sculpted from a clear picture in the author's mind, and he executed it perfectly. The relationships between DJ, Brett, and Abbi (another supporting character) just made sense. In many books, you find yourself trying to piece together who-is-who, and remember the relationship details between characters. Some stories are hard to follow due to the overload of detail and the fast pace of the book. This is not one of those books. If the book had been given a good editing session before publishing, I'd never have guessed this was James' first novel. It was just that good, and the characters were that memorable.
The edition of the book I read has since been updated, so I can't say for current readers what the content looks like as far as editing goes. There were many punctuation errors and a few odd and end grammatical errors, but as an author I was very impressed with the skill and proficiency Mr. Beltz showed. And I'm not saying this as considering the fact that he didn't have an editor, and this being his first novel. The fact that the book was as enjoyable as it was being unpolished shows the potential the author has and the worth of the story itself. I could easily see this made into an action movie. One I'd actually go see--and that says a LOT! The author is deserving of every one of the stars given in this review. Yes, more attention to detail (as far as errors are concerned) needs to go into the revised edition of Slaughter: Origin Story and his future novels, but if you learn the author's personal journey, how he went about writing and completing this novel, and the love he has for his literary baby, you will have no trouble falling in love with it yourself. I would love signed copies on my bookshelf, errors included, if need be. It has just left that big of a mark on this reader. It hit its mark.
October 15, 2019
This book would make for a forgettable B movie. The story and the writing is amateurish. The characters difficult to buy into even for the type of book it is. The main character makes Rambo seem like a Pusey. The typos (misspelled words, missing words, added words, wrong words) which you'll find on almost every page, are enough to make you pull your hair out.
The cliff-hanger ending wasn't enough to put myself through another book like it. I gave it one star only because I was able to force myself to read to the ending.
I caution you not to follow the advice on one reviewer (relative?) who suggests you start right off buying the whole set.
The cliff-hanger ending wasn't enough to put myself through another book like it. I gave it one star only because I was able to force myself to read to the ending.
I caution you not to follow the advice on one reviewer (relative?) who suggests you start right off buying the whole set.
November 15, 2019
I couldn't finish this.
I went with the audio book. Big mistake. The narrator mispronounced words. The narrator's tone was completely inappropriate for the narrative tone. The author attempted a semi-realistic story but went to painstaking efforts to make it PG-13. If you need something that ought to be high-stakes crime thriller, but you want the VidAngel version, maybe this is the story for you. In that case you should read the book; skip this audio book regardless.
I went with the audio book. Big mistake. The narrator mispronounced words. The narrator's tone was completely inappropriate for the narrative tone. The author attempted a semi-realistic story but went to painstaking efforts to make it PG-13. If you need something that ought to be high-stakes crime thriller, but you want the VidAngel version, maybe this is the story for you. In that case you should read the book; skip this audio book regardless.
April 8, 2018
DJ Slaughter, ex-military. His family is murdered and he couldn't do anything about it. Booze did not sooth the savage beast. He buys a cabin in the mountains in Colorado and just wants to be left alone. His interest in guns leads him to a situation where a "seller" set him up to steal his money and rob him of all that cash and guns he has at the cabin. The sale is set up to take place in the parking lot of his favorite diner. By the time DJ smells a rat it is too late. Only the intervention of the diner owner saves his life. Unfortunately the owner is killed. His wife and daughter become an important part of the story. One of the thugs that tried to ambush him, and ended up being killed, is the son of a mafia boss. The mafia boss sends about 20 highly skilled operatives after him at his cabin and all of them end up dead. Surprisingly, one FBI agent believes his story and now both their families are in danger. This is nonstop action from start to finish as the loved ones are kidnapped and the FBI agent is forced to team with Slaughter to rescue them. Very ingenious plot and highly recommended!
April 15, 2021
Yikes
I didn't finish this book. That is something I never do. Not finish something I am reading. I had too. I could not subject myself to the torture. This book had to be written by someone who isn't writing about things he knows. #1 Firearms. Please stop. #2 Law enforcement. ie FBI. He has the agent as a black and white guy. It is at the point his speaking is so .... Bad movie predictable. #3 Gun battle. Years ago there was a very old western movie called "Daniel Boone Trailblazer" . 20 Indians jump on Daniel, and he walks away without a scratch or getting his clothing dirty. In Slaughter, 25 heavily armed contract soldiers storm his home and Daniel has NO weapons, yet... He kills them all. Unbelievable book. I noticed he has written many books in this series. Please stop. Write what you know. Don't copy and paste.
The author left a message on Goodreads asking me to read his book and write a review. I am sure he regrets that. I can't recommend this book. Poorly written. Flashbacks come at times when it has nothing to do with the book. Fantasy. Too far fetched.
I didn't finish this book. That is something I never do. Not finish something I am reading. I had too. I could not subject myself to the torture. This book had to be written by someone who isn't writing about things he knows. #1 Firearms. Please stop. #2 Law enforcement. ie FBI. He has the agent as a black and white guy. It is at the point his speaking is so .... Bad movie predictable. #3 Gun battle. Years ago there was a very old western movie called "Daniel Boone Trailblazer" . 20 Indians jump on Daniel, and he walks away without a scratch or getting his clothing dirty. In Slaughter, 25 heavily armed contract soldiers storm his home and Daniel has NO weapons, yet... He kills them all. Unbelievable book. I noticed he has written many books in this series. Please stop. Write what you know. Don't copy and paste.
The author left a message on Goodreads asking me to read his book and write a review. I am sure he regrets that. I can't recommend this book. Poorly written. Flashbacks come at times when it has nothing to do with the book. Fantasy. Too far fetched.
September 14, 2018
The beginning of what I believe to be an epic series
I began this book with the usual apprehension I have when reading something for the first time by a completely new author to me. But it didn't take very long at all before it became a real page turner.
DJ Slaughter is our hero here, a guy who lost his wife and children in devastating circumstances. Resulting in him living the life of a recluse, a recluse that is, who has a major interest in guns. He collects guns, you can never have too many guns! But when what should have been a simple gun deal went terribly wrong, his lonely, idyllic life in his cabin in his own canyon was gone for good.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I liked the style of writing by the author James Beltz.
This is book one in a series of adventures with DJ Slaughter, and the ending to this book has left me desperate to read book 2.
I began this book with the usual apprehension I have when reading something for the first time by a completely new author to me. But it didn't take very long at all before it became a real page turner.
DJ Slaughter is our hero here, a guy who lost his wife and children in devastating circumstances. Resulting in him living the life of a recluse, a recluse that is, who has a major interest in guns. He collects guns, you can never have too many guns! But when what should have been a simple gun deal went terribly wrong, his lonely, idyllic life in his cabin in his own canyon was gone for good.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I liked the style of writing by the author James Beltz.
This is book one in a series of adventures with DJ Slaughter, and the ending to this book has left me desperate to read book 2.
June 12, 2018
Slaughter:Origin Story (DJ Slaughter Book 1) by James Beltz has it all. If you never read another thriller this year, you have to read this one. It's nonstop action from the first page to the very last page. It's a page burner. Impossible to put down once you start reading it. Beltz has created a character in DJ that, in many ways, reminds me of Mack Bolan in The Executioner Series.I love this book. I think that a better title for this book would have been Slaughter Begins because it ends with the opening to the second book and leaves the reader feeling compelled to buy the second book to find out if he is able to save the two ladies in his life.
A five star rating just doesn't do this book or this author Justice!
March 9, 2018
Slaughter: Origin Story
I always like to read an origin story. WHERE and HOW did these badass Assassins and Commandos pick up their skills. Did they get possessed by a Ninja from 300 years ago? Did they spend years coming up from the ranks of a nation's army, navy or a CIA equivalent? DJ Slaughter comes from traumatic occurrences in his earlier life. His wife and daughter were killed. he has a large chunk of money from his family. He purchases weapons and slowly begins to build up his expertise until he is ready to turn those skills on men who disrupted his self-imposed exile from humanity. He rises to the occasion and the challenge from a mob boss.
I always like to read an origin story. WHERE and HOW did these badass Assassins and Commandos pick up their skills. Did they get possessed by a Ninja from 300 years ago? Did they spend years coming up from the ranks of a nation's army, navy or a CIA equivalent? DJ Slaughter comes from traumatic occurrences in his earlier life. His wife and daughter were killed. he has a large chunk of money from his family. He purchases weapons and slowly begins to build up his expertise until he is ready to turn those skills on men who disrupted his self-imposed exile from humanity. He rises to the occasion and the challenge from a mob boss.
January 10, 2019
A simple purchase of collectible firearms turns into a bloodbath
DJ Slaughter, Navy veteran, lost his wife and twin daughters to armed gunmen. He left their home and became somewhat of a recluse, collecting fire arms and living off the grid in Colorado. A gun sale gone bad results in the death of a man he considered a friend, and his retribution results in a blood bath at his remote home. The FBI gets involved because one of the dead is Mafia king pin Big Chuck’s son. It doesn’t take long before the Magic, FBI and DJ Slaughter are involved in a war.
BIG cliff hanger ending!
DJ Slaughter, Navy veteran, lost his wife and twin daughters to armed gunmen. He left their home and became somewhat of a recluse, collecting fire arms and living off the grid in Colorado. A gun sale gone bad results in the death of a man he considered a friend, and his retribution results in a blood bath at his remote home. The FBI gets involved because one of the dead is Mafia king pin Big Chuck’s son. It doesn’t take long before the Magic, FBI and DJ Slaughter are involved in a war.
BIG cliff hanger ending!
March 22, 2019
This story hit the ground running and never let up. We are introduced to DJ Slaughter, a man living out his life in solitude. But one decision changes everything.
The pace of this story made it hard to stop listening, and I found myself sitting in my car to finish a chapter. I loved the characters, even the bad ones were well-developed, and I need to know what happens next. There is some violence, but I felt it was very appropriate for the story being told. This was an excellent listening experience!
The pace of this story made it hard to stop listening, and I found myself sitting in my car to finish a chapter. I loved the characters, even the bad ones were well-developed, and I need to know what happens next. There is some violence, but I felt it was very appropriate for the story being told. This was an excellent listening experience!
April 25, 2019
Not bad, but reminded of The punisher.
I will say that regardless of this being a book that reminded me a lot of the punisher, it still kept me entertained. The main character DJ did a great job of that. He was funny, witty and somewhat of a smart ass. It was a fast read, with lots of action. Decent book overall. Nice mix of action and dialogue. My only hiccup was the similarities, which made me predict the book. It sucks when you can predict the book in the first couple of chapters, makes the rest of the book kind of long and boring.
I will say that regardless of this being a book that reminded me a lot of the punisher, it still kept me entertained. The main character DJ did a great job of that. He was funny, witty and somewhat of a smart ass. It was a fast read, with lots of action. Decent book overall. Nice mix of action and dialogue. My only hiccup was the similarities, which made me predict the book. It sucks when you can predict the book in the first couple of chapters, makes the rest of the book kind of long and boring.
August 22, 2019
Unfortunately, I am torn on what type of review to write for this book. On the one hand, it was an enjoyable read (albeit GREATLY far-fetched) but on the other hand I felt like the author wasted so much of my time by repeating the same scenes over again from a different perspective. It was almost as if he was getting paid by the word.
Last but not least, the narrator for this book may have been the worst EVER! I was so sick of the "Hi, I'm Batman" cadence that I literally contemplated quitting! Bottom line is that I will give it 3 stars because it did keep my interest.
Last but not least, the narrator for this book may have been the worst EVER! I was so sick of the "Hi, I'm Batman" cadence that I literally contemplated quitting! Bottom line is that I will give it 3 stars because it did keep my interest.
July 1, 2020
Edits
When Henery looked up, he was staring into the barrel of a shiny, chromed-out revolver aimed right at him.
Either here, or in jail, DJ was going to marked for death at any cost. He was certain of it.
I was news he had planned to deliver directly after he stood face to face with the mythic man.
How could global warming scientist not be able to accurately forecast the weather only hours away, but could somehow declare what the weather would be like twenty years from now? He wondered if some of those so-called “science deniers” might be right. [dangerous commentary]
When Henery looked up, he was staring into the barrel of a shiny, chromed-out revolver aimed right at him.
Either here, or in jail, DJ was going to marked for death at any cost. He was certain of it.
I was news he had planned to deliver directly after he stood face to face with the mythic man.
How could global warming scientist not be able to accurately forecast the weather only hours away, but could somehow declare what the weather would be like twenty years from now? He wondered if some of those so-called “science deniers” might be right. [dangerous commentary]
December 23, 2020
I started this series hoping to not be disappointed...again. Action..check...adventure...check...a hero you really like and care about...check, check, check. Supporting characters that you grow invested in, absolutely. I devoured this series in a couple of days, I’ve laughed, cried, held my breath and watched with malicious glee as D.J. pulled the trigger on the bad guys, and wished I could kick ‘em as he walked away.
Some of the books are cliffhangers. I actually found myself smiling over that. Enjoy!! I certainly did!
Some of the books are cliffhangers. I actually found myself smiling over that. Enjoy!! I certainly did!
March 5, 2021
Action, Action, and more Action
This book was downright awesome. I had never heard of DJ Slaughter before, but am happy that I was given a chance to read it. Mr. Beltz did a fantastic job with the constant and intense action. Though over the top, it was done extremely well. DJ does what it takes to get the job done. He is surely an anti-hero, but these are the best kinds of heroes. I will certainly read the other books. This book was well written and extremely fast to read due to the non stop scenes of gunplay. Just when it would take a breath, the action would resume at full force. Loved this book.
This book was downright awesome. I had never heard of DJ Slaughter before, but am happy that I was given a chance to read it. Mr. Beltz did a fantastic job with the constant and intense action. Though over the top, it was done extremely well. DJ does what it takes to get the job done. He is surely an anti-hero, but these are the best kinds of heroes. I will certainly read the other books. This book was well written and extremely fast to read due to the non stop scenes of gunplay. Just when it would take a breath, the action would resume at full force. Loved this book.
January 12, 2018
Slaughter: Origin Story introduces us to DJ (David John Slaughter) a reclusive man with a tragic past. DJ is an avid gun collector, and what should have been a simple and above board exchange turns into a wild race of survival.
The story is fast paced, detailed without being verbose, and well written. The ending will have readers reaching for the next book (out soon) as it promises a mother of a twist.
If your a fan of thrilling crime dramas then this is a must!
The story is fast paced, detailed without being verbose, and well written. The ending will have readers reaching for the next book (out soon) as it promises a mother of a twist.
If your a fan of thrilling crime dramas then this is a must!
March 3, 2018
James Beltz's " Slaughter: Origin Story"
Great plot that made this book nearly impossible to put down. Lots intrigue and twists in direction. Can't wait to dive into the next offering. I will be following Mr Beltz in hopes that he continues to progress in his craft. I was pleasantly surprised. A little closer attention to editing for syntax and I believe this author has a very bright future in his craft.
Great plot that made this book nearly impossible to put down. Lots intrigue and twists in direction. Can't wait to dive into the next offering. I will be following Mr Beltz in hopes that he continues to progress in his craft. I was pleasantly surprised. A little closer attention to editing for syntax and I believe this author has a very bright future in his craft.
April 26, 2021
Non stop action. DJ Slaughter has had a pretty rough go of it and found solitude in a quiet spot in southern Colorado. Until one day, when he went to make a gun purchase from a private party, all hell broke loose and he found himself in the middle of an all out war.
He personally takes on a crew of 20 men sent to kill him, then goes on a personal vendetta against the man who sent that crew. Non-stop action from the first chapter. Can't wait to read more in the series.
He personally takes on a crew of 20 men sent to kill him, then goes on a personal vendetta against the man who sent that crew. Non-stop action from the first chapter. Can't wait to read more in the series.
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