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American Mercenary #3
Dark Redemption
An assassin on the brink of destruction. The leader of a global crime syndicate. And the meeting of two fatal enemies…
David Rivers killed the man who betrayed his team.
Now, he’s after the faceless mastermind who gave the order.
To the criminal world, this man is known only as the Handler.
And for the first time, he is within David’s reach.
But in order to get close to the Handler, David must first serve him. This time, the task is new: not to kill a target, but to protect one.
As David negotiates a labyrinth of twisted loyalties in the violent slums of Rio de Janeiro, he realizes that the betrayal of his former teammates was just the beginning.
And nothing in David’s murderous past can prepare him for what happens when he finally meets his greatest enemy face-to-face.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2018
3060 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
Jason Kasper
73 books481 followersJason Kasper is a USA Today bestselling thriller author. He served in the US Army, beginning as a Ranger private and ending as a Green Beret captain. Jason is a West Point graduate and a veteran of the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, and was an avid ultramarathon runner, skydiver, and BASE jumper, all of which inspire his fiction.
Follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @KasperAuthor.
Join his mailing list for bonus content and book updates: https://bit.ly/440lHom
Follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @KasperAuthor.
Join his mailing list for bonus content and book updates: https://bit.ly/440lHom
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 22, 2019
Surprise At Every Turn As Hunt for Revenge Continues
David Rivers is still throwing all he has into killing the 'Handler', but this man really does seem to know Everything! And the surprises that are around every turn keep this soldier on edge, not knowing who is with him or who is Not! The action scenes are unbeatable, using different types of guns and David's quick wit to keep himself and the one he is supposed to per the Handler, alive and moving!
Another wonderful adventure towards the endgame...Can David reach it Yet!?!....
David Rivers is still throwing all he has into killing the 'Handler', but this man really does seem to know Everything! And the surprises that are around every turn keep this soldier on edge, not knowing who is with him or who is Not! The action scenes are unbeatable, using different types of guns and David's quick wit to keep himself and the one he is supposed to per the Handler, alive and moving!
Another wonderful adventure towards the endgame...Can David reach it Yet!?!....
March 7, 2022
The third entry in Jason Kasper's American Mercenary series, Dark Redemption, starts where the previous entry in the series, Offer of Revenge, left off. Fresh off of a plane from Somalia, David Rivers is granted an audience with the enigmatic Handler. The Handler makes it known he knows something is amiss, but grants Rivers a chance with an assignment: protect an Outfit VIP on a business trip. Things quickly go awry, and Rivers is forced to use his wits to stay alive, protect his principal, and take a chance at his long shot to kill the Handler.
Though this is about the same length as Offer of Revenge, this feels more like a complete story. It was definitely just as much of a page turner as the previous entries in the series, and it ended with a twist I did not see coming whatsoever. The dialogue is excellent, as always, and with Kasper's SOF background, the action is crisp and kinetic, as one would expect.
I'm hooked. I need to see what happens next to David Rivers!
Though this is about the same length as Offer of Revenge, this feels more like a complete story. It was definitely just as much of a page turner as the previous entries in the series, and it ended with a twist I did not see coming whatsoever. The dialogue is excellent, as always, and with Kasper's SOF background, the action is crisp and kinetic, as one would expect.
I'm hooked. I need to see what happens next to David Rivers!
June 14, 2023
Dark Redemption is the best one yet in this first David Rivers series by Jason Kasper. So many twists and turns and it's like nothing else I have read. I must say I am in for a surprise with every new book in this series. Highly recommended.
May 15, 2021
David meets a nice pastor on his very roundabout way towards suicide, vengeance, redemption. He's still trying to self-medicate depression with heavy machinery.
Q:
“I hope I see you again and feel the difference God’s hand has worked in your life. If not here, then when all the great warriors of eternity are gathered around the fire of heaven. From one gunslinger who renounced the life of bloodshed to another that hopefully shall one day, Godspeed.” (c)
Q:
“I hope I see you again and feel the difference God’s hand has worked in your life. If not here, then when all the great warriors of eternity are gathered around the fire of heaven. From one gunslinger who renounced the life of bloodshed to another that hopefully shall one day, Godspeed.” (c)
July 8, 2022
Third Book Down in the David Rivers Series. Book #2 leaves you in suspense with David eagerly waiting for a chance to meet the Handler and get his revenge. David is put on another mission after meeting with the Handler and is brought to S. America to assist a team escort a woman back home. He doesn't understand the mission, he doesn't know why he is there; but he continues on the mission. There is the active gun fight, hiding, etc. through a small pueblo in the countryside which is known for drug dealers and crime. While David and the team fight to survive and save the woman, he sets up a trap to get the people hunting them. People they thought were allies at the beginning. After a lot of efforts, they are saved by the Handler and taken home.... where David finds out who the woman he was escorting really is. Not only does he find out more about her, but he is exposed for his revenge plans and has to negotiate his way out of being killed.... again.
January 24, 2021
Love this Series!
This is a really good series but I highly recommend that you start at the beginning or you will be lost. I do not consider them to be stand alone reads.
This is a really good series but I highly recommend that you start at the beginning or you will be lost. I do not consider them to be stand alone reads.
April 30, 2018
Another home run by Kasper. David Rivers' saga continues in the latest novel by Jason Kasper, who's emerging as a powerful new talent in the action/adventure/military thriller realm. Rivers previously found reprieve from the demons of his past via a dangerous new role operating as a mercenary for a shadowy organization. However, the team who found and redeemed him, as well as the woman he loved, were murdered in an act of treachery in "Greatest Enemy." David temporarily fled the country before being offered a chance to infiltrate the very organization that betrayed him and his team. He undertook that dangerous assignment as a double-agent in "Offer of Revenge." Rivers made his way through The Organization's torturous recruitment process and finally received his first assignment, a task almost custom-suited to his unique background as a military operator and skydiver. He and his partner undertook a thrilling parachute infiltration into Somalia in order to retrieve a mysterious package. The pair encountered dangerous new enemies and a mysterious new ally, before being caught in an untimely ambush. Only Rivers managed to escape, and even then only under questionable circumstances that even he does not fully comprehend. Having learned his (now deceased) partner had been a member of David's original - betrayed - team, he finds himself returning to The Organization at the beginning of "Dark Redemption" unsure of the degree of machinations around him. In order to finally get his shot at the headman who ordered the murder of his lover, Rivers must first depart on another mission to prove his loyalty.
Kasper has clearly grown as an author since his initial release. I've admired his work in each book, and it's been an absolute pleasure to come along for the ride as his mastery of the craft has grown more surefooted. To me the key improvements are that his dialogue has grown simultaneously more believable and more snappy, and his descriptions of time and place are superior - there were times when I was reading this novel that I could picture the neighborhoods and favelas of Rio de Janeiro perfectly in my mind's eye, even though I've never physically been there. Of course, Kasper's strengths continue to be his magnificent control of a well-timed plot and his action scenes. Particularly when reading his gunfights, any reader can appreciate the author's expansive knowledge of equipment, weaponry, and tactics. I'll also say this every time I review Kasper's work: it's clear the author has "seen the elephant" during his time in the military, because his depictions of what it's like to fight and win in modern combat are unequaled amongst his peers.
The bottom line is that this is a thrilling ride. A new reader could pick up "Dark Redemption" without having read the previous two works in the series and the only side-effect would be to have less emotional investment in Rivers' success than long-time readers. Those of us who have been here the entire time are of course reading on the edges of our seats, frantically flipping pages to find out how our hero will survive these latest twists and turns, and - hopefully - ultimately triumph over his enemies. I recommend this series wholeheartedly to anyone and everyone!
Kasper has clearly grown as an author since his initial release. I've admired his work in each book, and it's been an absolute pleasure to come along for the ride as his mastery of the craft has grown more surefooted. To me the key improvements are that his dialogue has grown simultaneously more believable and more snappy, and his descriptions of time and place are superior - there were times when I was reading this novel that I could picture the neighborhoods and favelas of Rio de Janeiro perfectly in my mind's eye, even though I've never physically been there. Of course, Kasper's strengths continue to be his magnificent control of a well-timed plot and his action scenes. Particularly when reading his gunfights, any reader can appreciate the author's expansive knowledge of equipment, weaponry, and tactics. I'll also say this every time I review Kasper's work: it's clear the author has "seen the elephant" during his time in the military, because his depictions of what it's like to fight and win in modern combat are unequaled amongst his peers.
The bottom line is that this is a thrilling ride. A new reader could pick up "Dark Redemption" without having read the previous two works in the series and the only side-effect would be to have less emotional investment in Rivers' success than long-time readers. Those of us who have been here the entire time are of course reading on the edges of our seats, frantically flipping pages to find out how our hero will survive these latest twists and turns, and - hopefully - ultimately triumph over his enemies. I recommend this series wholeheartedly to anyone and everyone!
June 17, 2018
Jason Kasper has proven to be as discplined an author as he must have been as a successful West Point graduate and Special Forces combat veteran. This THIRD book in the David Rivers series will not disappoint. It is definitely helpful to read Kasper's David Rivers' series in order, and this book picks up immediately after OFFER OF REVENGE. This action-packed book is very hard to put down after getting started, so I was glad that I read this while I was still on medical leave after a left total kinee replacement. Kasper paints some very vivid word-pictures of the favelas of Rio de Janeiro. And although I have never been to Rio, the rotting garbage, and the mix of humanity and ever-present dogs and gut-wrenching poverty certainly remind me of my time in the Philippines. This author has been to the many less than tourist attractions where the army sent him during many years of service as a special operations warrior, and he vividly describes the smells and chaos of the poorest and most dangerous ghettos of Brazil. And mosat certainly his personal experience and knowledge of miloitaqry equipment, tactics and weapons, makes his combat/gunfight action scenes feel truly authentic. The characters are larger than life, and the hero-David Rivers is a conflicted veteran who the invested reader learns to really love. David Rivers is an equal to Jack Reacher or Mitch Rapp. And the book moves so fast that I definitely was shocked when it ended so fast. But obviously poised for BOOK FOUR. Strong work, Jason Kasper. When is the movie deal coming out?
October 13, 2021
I've waited until I've finished book 3 for a review. A bit of irony - I have the exact same psychologic diagnoses. I really struggled to get through the protagonists writings and it took me 2 goes to complete it. I'm not sure the perseverence was worth it. As the story progressed the more ridiculous it seemed to get. An evil and mysterious organisation that has a Dr Evil boss and has more super secret levels than scientology. I fully understand the juxtaposition between life and death the author has tried to create with our anti-hero but it sort of got really tiresome with him going on about how he's going to die in the next few minutes. I was left thinking 'get it over with already'. I also got frustrated with how incompetent and sometimes, unbelievably stupid he was. Bad descisions, bad planning, totally unwarranted sense of vengence but somehow he always comes through. I started book 4 but doubt I'll continue.
On the plus side it is well written with no editorial mistakes that can be prevalent in kindle unlimited books. It's just the whole scenario sucks.
On the plus side it is well written with no editorial mistakes that can be prevalent in kindle unlimited books. It's just the whole scenario sucks.
April 23, 2018
Dark Redemption is the 3rd book in the David Rivers series and it picks up the story as if there hadn't been a break between books. The main character is very driven and takes amazing steps to reach his goal while the reader can feel the power driving him ever forward through deadly missions and horrendous odds. Will his determination and incredible will to succeed win the day? It's a question that arises in the readers mind page after page. If you have read books 1 & 2 you won't be disappointed here. An intriguing series that will keep you coming back for more.
April 24, 2018
Excellent book in a great series. The epic saga continues, new characters appear, and it looks like we have many more volumes about the adventures of David Rivers and his attempts to avenge the death of friends and a beloved woman. In general, as usual, a damn interesting story, a good action with a fair share of suspense. I will wait for the next book of this very original series with impatience. I recommend it to all fans of the genre action / adventure. This is really a breath of fresh air in the genre, where, it would seem, you can not bring anything new. Bravo, Mr. Casper!
May 24, 2020
Consistency with this edition
Book 3 in the series feels very much like the first two, for better or worse. Fast pacing. Compelling action sequences. Interesting characters. Accompanied by the tin foil headed drama of the cliche nefarious organization and master string puller. Will keep reading the series because the author does put together a good story, not because I am dying to find out what happens next. But these are enjoyable reads nonetheless.
Book 3 in the series feels very much like the first two, for better or worse. Fast pacing. Compelling action sequences. Interesting characters. Accompanied by the tin foil headed drama of the cliche nefarious organization and master string puller. Will keep reading the series because the author does put together a good story, not because I am dying to find out what happens next. But these are enjoyable reads nonetheless.
April 5, 2024
Turning twists and turns!
Dark Redemption is Book 3 of the American Mercenary series. It should absolutely be read in order.
This series just keeps getting better! And my goodness, the turning twists and turns! Everytime I think I've got it figured out, THAT happens! This has got fast-paced, eerily realistic, non-stop action and combat scenes.
I would absolutely recommend this book to any adult due to mature content. I'm headed for Book 4!
Dark Redemption is Book 3 of the American Mercenary series. It should absolutely be read in order.
This series just keeps getting better! And my goodness, the turning twists and turns! Everytime I think I've got it figured out, THAT happens! This has got fast-paced, eerily realistic, non-stop action and combat scenes.
I would absolutely recommend this book to any adult due to mature content. I'm headed for Book 4!
April 25, 2018
David Rivers is back in a third book, and is better than ever. Dark Redemption is a well-written, "couldn't put it down" thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. It was suspenseful and full of twists. Over and over, it forced me to read just a little bit more, and I was never disappointed. I eagerly await future volumes.
May 23, 2018
Fast Paced, Good Twists
Better than the second one, not sure if it’s as good as the first, but definitely left some things for the fourth book. I liked the way it finished, some closure but enough left for me wanting more. If you’ve read the first two and aren’t sure if it gets better or worse or what, keep going. I would recommend this book for sure.
Better than the second one, not sure if it’s as good as the first, but definitely left some things for the fourth book. I liked the way it finished, some closure but enough left for me wanting more. If you’ve read the first two and aren’t sure if it gets better or worse or what, keep going. I would recommend this book for sure.
August 12, 2018
Where’s the next book?
As I read this great book I was horrified to realize that I desperately wanted to continue read and need book 4!
This book is the 3rd in the series and it keeps you wanting more. I look forward to the fourth book in the series. These are well written captivating books and this book is the best of the series so far.
As I read this great book I was horrified to realize that I desperately wanted to continue read and need book 4!
This book is the 3rd in the series and it keeps you wanting more. I look forward to the fourth book in the series. These are well written captivating books and this book is the best of the series so far.
September 16, 2018
JK has penned the second novel about the ex Army Ranger who is sent overseas on a mission set get a private contractor. The contractor send a group of men to the east coast of Africa in a set up mission. The people they are supposed to kill are not the eneny. The people they work for are. After being betrayed the Ranger seeks revenge. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2020
Strange but alluring.
Peculiar doesn’t come close. Odd, strange, unhinged are all words to describe this story. But... it pulls you in. It makes your mind try to put things in order, in perspective, to try & understand the motives, the endgame. It holds you captive till the last play.
Peculiar doesn’t come close. Odd, strange, unhinged are all words to describe this story. But... it pulls you in. It makes your mind try to put things in order, in perspective, to try & understand the motives, the endgame. It holds you captive till the last play.
January 14, 2023
Another great book by Jason Kasper!
Dark Redemption by Jason Kasper is a thrilling and action-packed novel that will keep readers guessing until the very end. The characters are well-developed, the plot is fast-paced, and the story is both suspenseful and thought-provoking. If you're a fan of thrillers, then I highly recommend giving this book a read.
Dark Redemption by Jason Kasper is a thrilling and action-packed novel that will keep readers guessing until the very end. The characters are well-developed, the plot is fast-paced, and the story is both suspenseful and thought-provoking. If you're a fan of thrillers, then I highly recommend giving this book a read.
November 30, 2025
Okay, it is getting better as I begin to understand the twist of this series. The new setting in South America, Rio, and of course his research of anew country, its people, the javales , the different casts, the Portugesa ethnicity was most enjoyable. How Author Kasper keeps all of this together is amazing. I’m enjoying the read much more with each new book of the series.VR, Mags
May 5, 2018
Great read
Just finished the third book and have continued to enjoy the series. The intertwined stories of each well-developed character have made me look forward to each installment.
Just finished the third book and have continued to enjoy the series. The intertwined stories of each well-developed character have made me look forward to each installment.
June 11, 2018
Liked this series....
Unfortunately, I have no knowledge of Portuguese, so this story left a lot that I did not understand. Wish you had given some text in parenthesis. Thanks, Amarillo Turtle
Unfortunately, I have no knowledge of Portuguese, so this story left a lot that I did not understand. Wish you had given some text in parenthesis. Thanks, Amarillo Turtle
January 11, 2019
Best book of the David rivers series yet!
This book had all the twist and turns of a Michael Connelly mystery and a Brad Thor Thriller. A must read if you have read the series or not!
This book had all the twist and turns of a Michael Connelly mystery and a Brad Thor Thriller. A must read if you have read the series or not!
March 17, 2019
Did not like it at all
Extremely disjointed and rambling. Along with extensive superfluous descriptions of unrelated things and stilted forced dialogue. Sorry, better luck with another reader.
Extremely disjointed and rambling. Along with extensive superfluous descriptions of unrelated things and stilted forced dialogue. Sorry, better luck with another reader.
December 5, 2019
Lots of twists and turns
This book was number 3 in the David Rivers series and they just keep getting better with each book. Leaving a cliffhanger that has you craving to read the next book.
This book was number 3 in the David Rivers series and they just keep getting better with each book. Leaving a cliffhanger that has you craving to read the next book.
October 2, 2020
Another Great David Rivers Book !!!!
Great third book in the series. Enjoyed the story and the way the missions expand around the world. Lots of twists and turns. Last minute changes indirection as the plot unwinds. Can't wait to read the next book.
Great third book in the series. Enjoyed the story and the way the missions expand around the world. Lots of twists and turns. Last minute changes indirection as the plot unwinds. Can't wait to read the next book.
October 7, 2020
Riveting
I’m sure I said that after the first two books as well, but the more it goes, the more riveting this series is.
And that Handler man is scary crazy, in a Hannibal Lecter sort of way. Looking forward to see if he will finally meet his demise at some point!
I’m sure I said that after the first two books as well, but the more it goes, the more riveting this series is.
And that Handler man is scary crazy, in a Hannibal Lecter sort of way. Looking forward to see if he will finally meet his demise at some point!
July 21, 2023
The adventure continues
The adventure continues as the plots thicken and possibilities seem endless! Does David have nine lives of Elfego Baca? Who has the most morbid of death wishes?
The adventure continues as the plots thicken and possibilities seem endless! Does David have nine lives of Elfego Baca? Who has the most morbid of death wishes?
April 25, 2018
Wow what a great, thrilling and exciting read. The story is fast paced and the action non-stop. The David Rivers series is full of action and twists you won't see coming. Would definitely recommend
June 30, 2018
Short but sweet
A read that says I have a need for more. This is a great lead man who has the ability to make it work. Will read many more and can not wait
A read that says I have a need for more. This is a great lead man who has the ability to make it work. Will read many more and can not wait
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews