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Logan West #4
Rules of War
A DANA PERINO BOOK CLUB PICK
Following the events of the “fast, hard-hitting, and impossible to put down” ( The Real Book Spy ) Field of Valor , Logan West continues his mission to bring America’s traitorous vice president to justice, even as the clandestine group pulling all the strings makes one last deadly bid to regain their power.
The vice president of the United States is missing, the director of the National Security Agency has been assassinated, and the mysterious organization orchestrating global instability is in tatters. While John Quick recovers from a gunshot wound that nearly killed him, Logan West is on the hunt to bring the vice president back to the US to face justice for his treason. The final stakes have never been higher and Logan and his task force are left with little to no options. Will it be this warrior’s end?
“As a former Marine, Betley really knows his stuff” (#1 New York Times bestselling author Kyle Mills), and rules of Rules of War is filled with the gripping, nonstop action thriller fans crave.
Following the events of the “fast, hard-hitting, and impossible to put down” ( The Real Book Spy ) Field of Valor , Logan West continues his mission to bring America’s traitorous vice president to justice, even as the clandestine group pulling all the strings makes one last deadly bid to regain their power.
The vice president of the United States is missing, the director of the National Security Agency has been assassinated, and the mysterious organization orchestrating global instability is in tatters. While John Quick recovers from a gunshot wound that nearly killed him, Logan West is on the hunt to bring the vice president back to the US to face justice for his treason. The final stakes have never been higher and Logan and his task force are left with little to no options. Will it be this warrior’s end?
“As a former Marine, Betley really knows his stuff” (#1 New York Times bestselling author Kyle Mills), and rules of Rules of War is filled with the gripping, nonstop action thriller fans crave.
357 pages, Hardcover
First published July 16, 2019
239 people are currently reading
946 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Betley
14 books302 followersMatthew Betley grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, which he considers home after his family moved there from New Jersey, where he was born and which also explains his affinity for the New York Yankees. He attended St. Xavier High School and then Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where he graduated with a B.A. in psychology and minors in political science and sociology. He also spent the first semester of senior year investigating felony murder cases as an intern investigator in Washington, D.C., for the Public Defender’s Office, a formative experience that provided countless stories that could fill the pages of a non-fiction book. Upon graduation, he worked in corporate America for five years in Cincinnati before joining the Marine Corps in 1999.
Matt spent ten years as a Marine officer and was trained as a scout sniper platoon commander, an infantry officer, and a ground intelligence officer. His experiences include deployments to Djibouti after 9/11, and Fallujah, Iraq, prior to the surge, both in staff officer support billets.
Finally, and most importantly, Matt is a recovering alcoholic with nearly seven years of sobriety. He credits the Marine Corps with providing a foundation in discipline and personal accountability for his desire to initially seek help. Matt is open and direct about it and has spoken in front of large groups of people with one clear message – if he can get sober, so can anyone. He credits his recovery with providing the authenticity for Logan West’s struggle with his inner demons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
June 3, 2019
Following his hard-hitting third novel, Field of Valor, Matthew Betley reloads and reengages with Rules of War, his most action-packed thriller to date.
In the aftermath of Valor, the director of the NSA is dead, and Joshua Baker, the United States’ vice president, is missing. A traitor to his country, finding Baker is the number one priority for Task Force Ares, an elite unit within the FBI, and former Marine Logan West leads the manhunt.
While his BFF and right-hand man John Quick recovers from a serious gunshot wound, it’s former CIA agent Cole Matthews who accompanies Logan this time around, as the duo heads to an Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. Unbenknownst to Logan, though, someone is after him—which complicates matters significantly.
Chief Inspector Santiago Rojas of Bolivian National Intelligence has been tasked with finding and bringing Logan back to Venezuela. A widower, Rojas also has a sick child dying of cancer—her treatment contingent on his ability to produce Logan to his superiors. To save her, he’ll do anything, but after a brief encounter with Logan and Cole, the tables are turned yet again when the trio—Santiago, Logan, and Cole—are ambushed in Rojas’ hotel room and forced to fight their way out of the building.
Logan, who has always laid it all on the line, runnin’ and gunnin’ with the best of ’em, carries himself a bit differently in this one. Now an expected father, his perspective has changed. Empathetic to Rojas’ situation, he agrees to go to Venezuela so the man can secure the medical treatment for his daughter—and in doing so, finally connects the dots, revealing the real conspiracy playing out behind the scenes. With all the players finally unmasked, Logan West sets his sights on the former VP and everyone else who’s helped him along the way, and in doing so, opens the biggest can of whoop-ass Betley’s readers have seen yet.
A former Marine himself, action and quick-witted dialogue have been Matthew Betley’s calling card throughout his writing career. And while the action and laugh-out-loud-funny one-liners are plentiful, he doesn’t receive enough credit for his ability to . . .
Continue reading this review here: https://therealbookspy.com/2019/05/14...
In the aftermath of Valor, the director of the NSA is dead, and Joshua Baker, the United States’ vice president, is missing. A traitor to his country, finding Baker is the number one priority for Task Force Ares, an elite unit within the FBI, and former Marine Logan West leads the manhunt.
While his BFF and right-hand man John Quick recovers from a serious gunshot wound, it’s former CIA agent Cole Matthews who accompanies Logan this time around, as the duo heads to an Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. Unbenknownst to Logan, though, someone is after him—which complicates matters significantly.
Chief Inspector Santiago Rojas of Bolivian National Intelligence has been tasked with finding and bringing Logan back to Venezuela. A widower, Rojas also has a sick child dying of cancer—her treatment contingent on his ability to produce Logan to his superiors. To save her, he’ll do anything, but after a brief encounter with Logan and Cole, the tables are turned yet again when the trio—Santiago, Logan, and Cole—are ambushed in Rojas’ hotel room and forced to fight their way out of the building.
Logan, who has always laid it all on the line, runnin’ and gunnin’ with the best of ’em, carries himself a bit differently in this one. Now an expected father, his perspective has changed. Empathetic to Rojas’ situation, he agrees to go to Venezuela so the man can secure the medical treatment for his daughter—and in doing so, finally connects the dots, revealing the real conspiracy playing out behind the scenes. With all the players finally unmasked, Logan West sets his sights on the former VP and everyone else who’s helped him along the way, and in doing so, opens the biggest can of whoop-ass Betley’s readers have seen yet.
A former Marine himself, action and quick-witted dialogue have been Matthew Betley’s calling card throughout his writing career. And while the action and laugh-out-loud-funny one-liners are plentiful, he doesn’t receive enough credit for his ability to . . .
Continue reading this review here: https://therealbookspy.com/2019/05/14...
September 1, 2019
Another great entry in the Logan West series.
The vice President is on the run, but the conspiracy survives. West has to get the Vice, and stop the machinations of the committee despite his partner being wounded, and having a pregnant wife.
Really great stuff. Betley has moved himself into the genre's top tier with this effort.
The vice President is on the run, but the conspiracy survives. West has to get the Vice, and stop the machinations of the committee despite his partner being wounded, and having a pregnant wife.
Really great stuff. Betley has moved himself into the genre's top tier with this effort.
August 22, 2019
Matt knows how to write action scenes! For thriller fans, you'll be hardpressed to find a better action sequence author. The storyline is tight, and the buildup during the book will pull you ahead whether you need to go to bed, or not. Rules of War is his latest novel and arguably his best to-date.
July 24, 2019
Matthew Betley rocks again with his action packed fourth entry into the renowned Logan West thriller series. I was pleasantly surprised by the sheer wild pace of the thriller, starting on all thrusters without letting up. Rules of War is a delicious treat for hardcore action thriller fanatics looking for a smart, adrenaline pumping and no holds barred action read with lethal characters.
Rules of War starts off not much later after the events of Field of Valor, with Logan West on the trail of his target, the ex-Vice President of the United States, who turned out to be a nefarious character in the shocking twists of the previous novel. While Mr. Betley does aptly explain the events of the prior novel for a new reader to quickly jump into this book, I would recommend that readers go through Field of Valor at least beforehand to get the gist of the ‘race-against -time’ circumstances and the personal stakes involved.
The narrative is fast and direct, with entertaining thrills and suspense. While there are no huge plot twists, I felt the book did not need any, with the emphasis on dynamic situations, leading Logan West and his colleagues to adapt to the changing situational environments faster than I could breathe. The main focus this time around is on Logan West and Cole Matthews of Task Force Ares, as they dismantle The Organization. John Quick and Amira Cerone, while away from the action in Venezuela where Logan and Cole wreak havoc still have a lethal arc in Rules of War, with John Quick having a bad-ass fight sequence inside a Chick Fil A kitchen.
As with all previous Logan West thrillers, Rules of War does not disappoint with its authentic tactics and weapon systems, owing its thanks to Mr. Betley’s years of service. The tactical authenticity lends a huge helping hand to the power of action sequences in this novel. The action is relentless, taking place in exciting and breathtaking sequences such as earthquakes, chair lifts, on top of trains, and then some. The shootouts and close quarter combat sequences are superbly written, allowing readers to visualize every aspect of the moment in slow motion, a trait limited to a few authors who can write stunning action sequences. It’s always fun reading Logan West shoot bad guys while advancing in a combat crouch.
There is no denying there is a strong emotional factor in this lethal thriller. With emotional stakes, both from painful pasts and hopeful futures, the emotions for both protagonists and antagonists give them another layer of depth to their three-dimensional characters, which really helps to invest oneself into the book. With emotions swirling high and fueling the action, the narrative is even better.
With such a fast and action-packed pace, the book rarely gives you time to ponder about the events that transpire. This however isn’t a bad thing, especially for Rules of War since the story is a straight shooter with lots of gunfights and a thirst for vengeance that sucks the readers in like its their own battle for vengeance. All in all, Rules of War is a highly entertaining thriller with memorable action sequences, grounded characters and situations, and a heart that easily resonates with readers who invest themselves in this thriller. A great read for the summer!
Rules of War starts off not much later after the events of Field of Valor, with Logan West on the trail of his target, the ex-Vice President of the United States, who turned out to be a nefarious character in the shocking twists of the previous novel. While Mr. Betley does aptly explain the events of the prior novel for a new reader to quickly jump into this book, I would recommend that readers go through Field of Valor at least beforehand to get the gist of the ‘race-against -time’ circumstances and the personal stakes involved.
The narrative is fast and direct, with entertaining thrills and suspense. While there are no huge plot twists, I felt the book did not need any, with the emphasis on dynamic situations, leading Logan West and his colleagues to adapt to the changing situational environments faster than I could breathe. The main focus this time around is on Logan West and Cole Matthews of Task Force Ares, as they dismantle The Organization. John Quick and Amira Cerone, while away from the action in Venezuela where Logan and Cole wreak havoc still have a lethal arc in Rules of War, with John Quick having a bad-ass fight sequence inside a Chick Fil A kitchen.
As with all previous Logan West thrillers, Rules of War does not disappoint with its authentic tactics and weapon systems, owing its thanks to Mr. Betley’s years of service. The tactical authenticity lends a huge helping hand to the power of action sequences in this novel. The action is relentless, taking place in exciting and breathtaking sequences such as earthquakes, chair lifts, on top of trains, and then some. The shootouts and close quarter combat sequences are superbly written, allowing readers to visualize every aspect of the moment in slow motion, a trait limited to a few authors who can write stunning action sequences. It’s always fun reading Logan West shoot bad guys while advancing in a combat crouch.
There is no denying there is a strong emotional factor in this lethal thriller. With emotional stakes, both from painful pasts and hopeful futures, the emotions for both protagonists and antagonists give them another layer of depth to their three-dimensional characters, which really helps to invest oneself into the book. With emotions swirling high and fueling the action, the narrative is even better.
With such a fast and action-packed pace, the book rarely gives you time to ponder about the events that transpire. This however isn’t a bad thing, especially for Rules of War since the story is a straight shooter with lots of gunfights and a thirst for vengeance that sucks the readers in like its their own battle for vengeance. All in all, Rules of War is a highly entertaining thriller with memorable action sequences, grounded characters and situations, and a heart that easily resonates with readers who invest themselves in this thriller. A great read for the summer!
July 16, 2019
Rules of War is from Matthew Betley, a former Marine Corps scout sniper platoon commander and infantry officer with deployments to Djibouti, Africa and Fallujah, Iraq. His Logan West thrillers have become an annual must read for all thriller fans, hitting the scene in 2016 with Overwatch, where we were introduced to Logan West. He woke up from a complete black out caused by a serious drinking problem mainly due to PTSD, something many veterans are living with every day. Being a veteran myself, reading this work of fiction, with some hard-hitting truth sprinkled into the dialogue is something I’ve come to appreciate from Betley’s novels. Things that only experienced combat veterans have the ability to capture in their writing, by experienced, I mean those guys that actually leave the wire and aren’t fobbits. From there, the action starts and never slows down.
In Rules of War, the intense, action packed ride continues from where last year’s Field of Valor ended. Joshua Baker, the US Vice President, one of the highest-ranking individuals left alive within the organization, set a chain of events in motion, climaxing with his entire secret service detail engaging in a gun fight against Logan West and the Ares taskforce and resulting in his escape. In Rules of War, Logan is on a mission to capture this traitor and make him pay for his sins.
Rules of War takes Logan to South America where he meets some noble warriors who have their own personal reasons to fight against the organization and the instability it has brought to their country of Venezuela. Amongst them, Chief Inspector Santiago Rojas of SEBIN, the Bolivarian National Intelligence Agency. While there, Logan and Cole, assisted by Santiago, and a few other returning characters are up against a formidable opponent on his home turf. On top of that, mother nature strikes giving another disadvantage to Logan and his taskforce in their efforts.
Fan favorite and Logan’s best friend, former Gunnery Sergeant of Marines, John Quick is forced to sit this one out due to a GSW he received in that gun fight with the Secret Service in Field of Valor. Amira Cerone also benched since the two are practically inseparable. I did however appreciate the realistic view on consequences sustaining that type of wound. In many books and movies, someone gets shot and is up and practically running a marathon the next day. But, just because they did not accompany Logan and Cole to South America, it doesn’t mean they’re completely immune from danger. Betley delivers some hard-hitting action, as well as one of the most emotional eye tearing sequences, much like when Logan’s friend, FBI Deputy Director Mike Benson had an emotional tear jerker of a scene in Oath of Honor.
The same funny dialogue, hard hitting, non-stop action, and emotional rollercoasters we have become accustomed to in a Logan West thriller are all within these pages in Rules of War. Betley once again delivered a must-read political thriller that does not disappoint. Pre-order Rules of War, and if you haven’t been on this train since 2016 when Overwatch debuted, I highly recommend you pre-order this novel, and while you’re waiting for July 16, check out the first three in this must-read series, Overwatch, Oath of Honor, and Field of Valor.
In Rules of War, the intense, action packed ride continues from where last year’s Field of Valor ended. Joshua Baker, the US Vice President, one of the highest-ranking individuals left alive within the organization, set a chain of events in motion, climaxing with his entire secret service detail engaging in a gun fight against Logan West and the Ares taskforce and resulting in his escape. In Rules of War, Logan is on a mission to capture this traitor and make him pay for his sins.
Rules of War takes Logan to South America where he meets some noble warriors who have their own personal reasons to fight against the organization and the instability it has brought to their country of Venezuela. Amongst them, Chief Inspector Santiago Rojas of SEBIN, the Bolivarian National Intelligence Agency. While there, Logan and Cole, assisted by Santiago, and a few other returning characters are up against a formidable opponent on his home turf. On top of that, mother nature strikes giving another disadvantage to Logan and his taskforce in their efforts.
Fan favorite and Logan’s best friend, former Gunnery Sergeant of Marines, John Quick is forced to sit this one out due to a GSW he received in that gun fight with the Secret Service in Field of Valor. Amira Cerone also benched since the two are practically inseparable. I did however appreciate the realistic view on consequences sustaining that type of wound. In many books and movies, someone gets shot and is up and practically running a marathon the next day. But, just because they did not accompany Logan and Cole to South America, it doesn’t mean they’re completely immune from danger. Betley delivers some hard-hitting action, as well as one of the most emotional eye tearing sequences, much like when Logan’s friend, FBI Deputy Director Mike Benson had an emotional tear jerker of a scene in Oath of Honor.
The same funny dialogue, hard hitting, non-stop action, and emotional rollercoasters we have become accustomed to in a Logan West thriller are all within these pages in Rules of War. Betley once again delivered a must-read political thriller that does not disappoint. Pre-order Rules of War, and if you haven’t been on this train since 2016 when Overwatch debuted, I highly recommend you pre-order this novel, and while you’re waiting for July 16, check out the first three in this must-read series, Overwatch, Oath of Honor, and Field of Valor.
July 5, 2019
Wow, what an amazing series. Matthew Betley has such a skilful and fluid writing style, and he has that wonderful ability to pull you into the story so that nothing else exists around you. I especially like that the story is quite unpredictable, and has an edge to it, with some outstanding characters. Logan West have some serious skills and he’s definitely not someone to be messed with.
Army Lieutenant General Victor Ascension Corones is a man out for revenge for the murder of his son. His son Daniel had worked for SEBIN and had died at the result of the protests because of the failing economy of Venezuela. Now the General had a plan for revenge, and he was hopefully going to be able to use Joshua Baker, the Vice President of the United States who had managed to escape. Now Logan West had been tasked with tracking Baker down and he had some very powerful people backing him. It looks like Logan and Cole are going to need to head into the mountains to some very hostile territory. If you enjoy Action Thrillers, then you will love this book. 5/5 Star Rating.
Thank you to Atria Books for providing me with a copy of this book for an unbiased review.
Army Lieutenant General Victor Ascension Corones is a man out for revenge for the murder of his son. His son Daniel had worked for SEBIN and had died at the result of the protests because of the failing economy of Venezuela. Now the General had a plan for revenge, and he was hopefully going to be able to use Joshua Baker, the Vice President of the United States who had managed to escape. Now Logan West had been tasked with tracking Baker down and he had some very powerful people backing him. It looks like Logan and Cole are going to need to head into the mountains to some very hostile territory. If you enjoy Action Thrillers, then you will love this book. 5/5 Star Rating.
Thank you to Atria Books for providing me with a copy of this book for an unbiased review.
August 1, 2019
The cover of RULES OF WAR wonderfully and accurately sums up its mood. We see a soldier hanging from a helicopter rappel line in the middle of a group of tall buildings as smoke, ash, fire and debris appear from all corners. While it mirrors one scene in the book, the pages are full of them, as former marine Logan West leaps across a seemingly endless metaphorical ice floe in a pursuit fraught with constant danger.
Those who have read the previous novels in this series --- OVERWATCH, OATH OF HONOR and FIELD OF VALOR --- know what to expect, and no doubt will have a defibrillator on hand when they crack the binding. Betley wastes little time in setting up a few dominoes before getting Logan rolling. And roll he does. Things begin in earnest for Logan at Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. Betley loves to drop him and all sorts of action into the world’s most interesting places. He does so once again in RULES OF WAR, which moves quickly from Nassau to Caracas, Venezuela. Logan is confined primarily to Caracas, but there is plenty of scenery to admire, at least briefly, as he pursues his mission, which is twofold, on behalf of the United States Joint Terrorism Task Force.
"Betley has walked the walk in some of the world’s most dangerous areas, and it is reflected in the talk he talks here.... The result is an exhilarating and passionate read that you won’t soon forget."
Logan must locate and recover the Vice President of the United States. The man is officially missing, but has been revealed to be a traitor aligned with the dangerous and deadly group known only as The Organization, which has been manipulating world events to play the superpowers against each other, thus sowing seeds of chaos and destruction. There are few better places to do this than Venezuela, and Logan, with the always deadly and quipping John Quick by his side, knows exactly how high the odds are stacked against him. Fortunately, he has the backing of some of the higher-ups of the Venezuelan government, at least one of whom has personal motivations to see that Logan is successful. These are motivations that he ultimately takes on as his own.
Logan and John also acquire a couple of unexpected allies along the way; common danger shared mutually makes for strange bedfellows. As a result, the explosions, collisions, firefighting and brutal hand-to-hand combat are never more than a page or two away at any given point, when it seems that even the joint skills of these two men will not be enough. Bet on them anyway.
Betley has walked the walk in some of the world’s most dangerous areas, and it is reflected in the talk he talks here. RULES OF WAR is shot through with his own experiences to the extent that one wonders at various points where the fiction ends and the reality begins. The result is an exhilarating and passionate read that you won’t soon forget.
Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub
Those who have read the previous novels in this series --- OVERWATCH, OATH OF HONOR and FIELD OF VALOR --- know what to expect, and no doubt will have a defibrillator on hand when they crack the binding. Betley wastes little time in setting up a few dominoes before getting Logan rolling. And roll he does. Things begin in earnest for Logan at Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. Betley loves to drop him and all sorts of action into the world’s most interesting places. He does so once again in RULES OF WAR, which moves quickly from Nassau to Caracas, Venezuela. Logan is confined primarily to Caracas, but there is plenty of scenery to admire, at least briefly, as he pursues his mission, which is twofold, on behalf of the United States Joint Terrorism Task Force.
"Betley has walked the walk in some of the world’s most dangerous areas, and it is reflected in the talk he talks here.... The result is an exhilarating and passionate read that you won’t soon forget."
Logan must locate and recover the Vice President of the United States. The man is officially missing, but has been revealed to be a traitor aligned with the dangerous and deadly group known only as The Organization, which has been manipulating world events to play the superpowers against each other, thus sowing seeds of chaos and destruction. There are few better places to do this than Venezuela, and Logan, with the always deadly and quipping John Quick by his side, knows exactly how high the odds are stacked against him. Fortunately, he has the backing of some of the higher-ups of the Venezuelan government, at least one of whom has personal motivations to see that Logan is successful. These are motivations that he ultimately takes on as his own.
Logan and John also acquire a couple of unexpected allies along the way; common danger shared mutually makes for strange bedfellows. As a result, the explosions, collisions, firefighting and brutal hand-to-hand combat are never more than a page or two away at any given point, when it seems that even the joint skills of these two men will not be enough. Bet on them anyway.
Betley has walked the walk in some of the world’s most dangerous areas, and it is reflected in the talk he talks here. RULES OF WAR is shot through with his own experiences to the extent that one wonders at various points where the fiction ends and the reality begins. The result is an exhilarating and passionate read that you won’t soon forget.
Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub
July 18, 2019
Matthew Betley keeps topping himself! RULES OF WAR is another guns-blazing battle for the entire novel. I did find that Betley took this book to a more emotional level. I found that he did this in the previous books in this series, but this one, he really stepped up his game in that manner. When I read book #3 in the series, FIELD OF VALOR, literally the first words of the story were gunfire. It was pedal to the metal the entire time without ever letting up. In RULES OF WAR, I found Betley drifting and blurring the lines that separated the non-stop action and the intense, raw emotion that he portrays.
Betley has been a powerhouse of an author from book 1, OVERWATCH, and he hasn’t let up. These books are fast-paced, loaded with gunfire, and at points, hilarious, but he has reached a new level with RULES OF WAR. It is my favorite of the series, and I can’t recommend it enough. The way he infused the emotion and action all together made for one of the best novels of the year.
Betley has been a powerhouse of an author from book 1, OVERWATCH, and he hasn’t let up. These books are fast-paced, loaded with gunfire, and at points, hilarious, but he has reached a new level with RULES OF WAR. It is my favorite of the series, and I can’t recommend it enough. The way he infused the emotion and action all together made for one of the best novels of the year.
September 9, 2019
In Rules of War, Logan and Cole are sent to track down the traitor Joshua Baker who is also the Vice President. With Jack Longstreet's help, they know he is arriving in Venezuela and will be moved along a certain route. But thanks to a conveniently timed earthquake, they can't get to him and the chase begins.
Betley mostly avoids the "BOOM" notations throughout though some of his dialogue is awkward and needs smoother transitions. However, my biggest issue with Rules of War is that it seems to be just a bloodfest. The violence is very graphic. While violence is expected in heavy doses in this genre, Rules of War transitions from one firefight to the next, seemingly just to fill the page. When there isn't blood spurting, the men are having heart to heart discussions about fatherhood. I don't doubt the love of soldiers for their families, but there isn't much else to the book. The scenes give the book a fast pace, but the endless bloodshed and the descriptions of the alpha male warriors gets old after a while. Toward the end, there are some scenes with John, Amira, and her dad. These are very well done and show what Betley is capable of.
This is not a book for the young or the weak of heart or stomach. On top of the violence, the book is filled with profanity. If you have read and enjoyed his other books, you will probably enjoy this one.
Betley mostly avoids the "BOOM" notations throughout though some of his dialogue is awkward and needs smoother transitions. However, my biggest issue with Rules of War is that it seems to be just a bloodfest. The violence is very graphic. While violence is expected in heavy doses in this genre, Rules of War transitions from one firefight to the next, seemingly just to fill the page. When there isn't blood spurting, the men are having heart to heart discussions about fatherhood. I don't doubt the love of soldiers for their families, but there isn't much else to the book. The scenes give the book a fast pace, but the endless bloodshed and the descriptions of the alpha male warriors gets old after a while. Toward the end, there are some scenes with John, Amira, and her dad. These are very well done and show what Betley is capable of.
This is not a book for the young or the weak of heart or stomach. On top of the violence, the book is filled with profanity. If you have read and enjoyed his other books, you will probably enjoy this one.
May 10, 2019
Rules Of War is the 4th book from Mr. Betley in this series. If you haven't started this series yet, you should. The two main characters in this series, Logan West and John Quick are not together in this book,but it doesn't matter because the action is nonstop! The Vice President has turned traitor against the U.S.A. and Logan West is put on the trail to catch him. But the V.P. has a few tricks up his sleeve. The action starts on page one and doesn't stop till the end. I thought Field Of Valor, the book previous to this one, would be hard to top but Mr. Betley has done it again and I'm not surprised. He is one of the best at the genre and is a must read! Get yourself buckled in for this one!
September 23, 2019
Once again Logan West has to leave his home to fight evil. His little group of warriors is suffering from injuries from their latest clash with the enemy. This time they go to Venezuela to find the vice president of the USA who is allegedly kidnapped.... This is one of those books that you read from cover to cover with small interuptions like food and drink.
December 20, 2021
Reminded me of a B-level action movie from the 80s. Not a Stallone or Schwarzenegger one, but like a Cynthia Rothrock or Andy Sidaris movie. Still lots of fun, but a little lacking overall.
July 8, 2019
Matthew Betley rocks again with his action packed fourth entry into the renowned Logan West thriller series. I was pleasantly surprised by the sheer wild pace of the thriller, starting on all thrusters without letting up. Rules of War is a delicious treat for hardcore action thriller fanatics looking for a smart, adrenaline pumping and no holds barred action read with lethal characters.
Rules of War starts off not much later after the events of Field of Valor, with Logan West on the trail of his target, the ex-Vice President of the United States, who turned out to be a nefarious character in the shocking twists of the previous novel. While Mr. Betley does aptly explain the events of the prior novel for a new reader to quickly jump into this book, I would recommend that readers go through Field of Valor at least beforehand to get the gist of the ‘race-against -time’ circumstances and the personal stakes involved.
The narrative is fast and direct, with entertaining thrills and suspense. While there are no huge plot twists, I felt the book did not need any, with the emphasis on dynamic situations, leading Logan West and his colleagues to adapt to the changing situational environments faster than I could breathe. The main focus this time around is on Logan West and Cole Matthews of Task Force Ares, as they dismantle The Organization. John Quick and Amira Cerone, while away from the action in Venezuela where Logan and Cole wreak havoc still have a lethal arc in Rules of War, with John Quick having a bad-ass fight sequence inside a Chick Fil A kitchen.
As with all previous Logan West thrillers, Rules of War does not disappoint with its authentic tactics and weapon systems, owing its thanks to Mr. Betley’s years of service. The tactical authenticity lends a huge helping hand to the power of action sequences in this novel. The action is relentless, taking place in exciting and breathtaking sequences such as earthquakes, chair lifts, on top of trains, and then some. The shootouts and close quarter combat sequences are superbly written, allowing readers to visualize every aspect of the moment in slow motion, a trait limited to a few authors who can write stunning action sequences. It’s always fun reading Logan West shoot bad guys while advancing in a combat crouch.
There is no denying there is a strong emotional factor in this lethal thriller. With emotional stakes, both from painful pasts and hopeful futures, the emotions for both protagonists and antagonists give them another layer of depth to their three-dimensional characters, which really helps to invest oneself into the book. With emotions swirling high and fueling the action, the narrative is even better.
With such a fast and action-packed pace, the book rarely gives you time to ponder about the events that transpire. This however isn’t a bad thing, especially for Rules of War since the story is a straight shooter with lots of gunfights and a thirst for vengeance that sucks the readers in like its their own battle for vengeance. All in all, Rules of War is a highly entertaining thriller with memorable action sequences, grounded characters and situations, and a heart that easily resonates with readers who invest themselves in this thriller. A great read for the summer!
Rules of War starts off not much later after the events of Field of Valor, with Logan West on the trail of his target, the ex-Vice President of the United States, who turned out to be a nefarious character in the shocking twists of the previous novel. While Mr. Betley does aptly explain the events of the prior novel for a new reader to quickly jump into this book, I would recommend that readers go through Field of Valor at least beforehand to get the gist of the ‘race-against -time’ circumstances and the personal stakes involved.
The narrative is fast and direct, with entertaining thrills and suspense. While there are no huge plot twists, I felt the book did not need any, with the emphasis on dynamic situations, leading Logan West and his colleagues to adapt to the changing situational environments faster than I could breathe. The main focus this time around is on Logan West and Cole Matthews of Task Force Ares, as they dismantle The Organization. John Quick and Amira Cerone, while away from the action in Venezuela where Logan and Cole wreak havoc still have a lethal arc in Rules of War, with John Quick having a bad-ass fight sequence inside a Chick Fil A kitchen.
As with all previous Logan West thrillers, Rules of War does not disappoint with its authentic tactics and weapon systems, owing its thanks to Mr. Betley’s years of service. The tactical authenticity lends a huge helping hand to the power of action sequences in this novel. The action is relentless, taking place in exciting and breathtaking sequences such as earthquakes, chair lifts, on top of trains, and then some. The shootouts and close quarter combat sequences are superbly written, allowing readers to visualize every aspect of the moment in slow motion, a trait limited to a few authors who can write stunning action sequences. It’s always fun reading Logan West shoot bad guys while advancing in a combat crouch.
There is no denying there is a strong emotional factor in this lethal thriller. With emotional stakes, both from painful pasts and hopeful futures, the emotions for both protagonists and antagonists give them another layer of depth to their three-dimensional characters, which really helps to invest oneself into the book. With emotions swirling high and fueling the action, the narrative is even better.
With such a fast and action-packed pace, the book rarely gives you time to ponder about the events that transpire. This however isn’t a bad thing, especially for Rules of War since the story is a straight shooter with lots of gunfights and a thirst for vengeance that sucks the readers in like its their own battle for vengeance. All in all, Rules of War is a highly entertaining thriller with memorable action sequences, grounded characters and situations, and a heart that easily resonates with readers who invest themselves in this thriller. A great read for the summer!
July 1, 2019
Matthew Betley Rules Of War
Logan West is a man that always puts the mission first, regardless of who it is, what it is, and where it is. He’s grown as a character with the brilliant writing from Matthew Betley! In the 4th installment of West’s adventures, he battles new enemies in an abnormal location while having to battle past demons to achieve success. We catch up where Field of Valor leaves off and learning that Logan is faced with difficult situations professionally and personally on the home front.
If you enjoy fast paced, in your face, sarcastic roller coaster rides, then this is for you. The action is top notch, details are there and leave you wanting nothing more because the picture is painted so well! As a Marine officer, Matt has the experience to ensure readers are getting authentic feelings and leaves nothing out. He has a sarcastic streak (one I get to interact with on Twitter quite frequently) that will bring light to situations and give a little belly laugh from time to time.
This is a great read, and I am thankful that I was gifted a galley by Atria Books to enjoy before release day! Thank you again! Do not miss out on on Logan West and the ever evolving craft that Matt is providing! BZ Marine!
Logan West is a man that always puts the mission first, regardless of who it is, what it is, and where it is. He’s grown as a character with the brilliant writing from Matthew Betley! In the 4th installment of West’s adventures, he battles new enemies in an abnormal location while having to battle past demons to achieve success. We catch up where Field of Valor leaves off and learning that Logan is faced with difficult situations professionally and personally on the home front.
If you enjoy fast paced, in your face, sarcastic roller coaster rides, then this is for you. The action is top notch, details are there and leave you wanting nothing more because the picture is painted so well! As a Marine officer, Matt has the experience to ensure readers are getting authentic feelings and leaves nothing out. He has a sarcastic streak (one I get to interact with on Twitter quite frequently) that will bring light to situations and give a little belly laugh from time to time.
This is a great read, and I am thankful that I was gifted a galley by Atria Books to enjoy before release day! Thank you again! Do not miss out on on Logan West and the ever evolving craft that Matt is providing! BZ Marine!
October 5, 2019
Nobody writes an action sequence like Matthew Bettley. Rules of War is a non-stop rollercoaster ride of great action scenes from beginning to end. I think the only thing that holds the Logan West series from being as big as others in the genre is the dialogue could be better, and the main character, Logan West, is less interesting than supporting characters like John Quick and Amira Cerrone. This series is also more serial in nature than others in the genre to the point where this book may not make as much sense to you if you haven't read the others first. But as someone who has done so I really enjoy that aspect, and this was a fitting end to the series. I didn't factor it into my overall rating because I felt it was only fair to rate the book based on the content, but I do not like the narrator for this book (and series) at all. I think he has a strange inflection and style that can make dialogue that may be good on the page come off as flippant that doesn't match the tone of the scene. It's not a coincidence that my favorite book in the series was the one I read as a physical copy.
July 8, 2019
Logan West and his team have been sent to catch the vice president of the United States—who is on the run after faking his own kidnapping and committing treason— and bring him to justice. We follow Logan and his team, with the help of CI Santiago Rojas as they navigate the dense mountain forests of Caracas, Venezuela. A well-written thriller, fast-paced, solid writing, and a great cast of characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Many thanks to Matthew Betley, NetGalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to Matthew Betley, NetGalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2019
This series just keeps hitting on all cylinders, West and crew are on the front line in defending America from its enemies. Namely an overpowering secretive group known only as The Organization.
Lots of quick witted dialog is peppered throughout this book and the new characters introduced in this book are a nice addition. Also nice to see Quick get into the action even though he is not included in the actual mission because of injuries. No dull spots in this book, or series for that matter, but character development is still well done without leaving the action.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book and series, I would also recommend to read them in order starting with Overwatch. You will not be disappointed.
Lots of quick witted dialog is peppered throughout this book and the new characters introduced in this book are a nice addition. Also nice to see Quick get into the action even though he is not included in the actual mission because of injuries. No dull spots in this book, or series for that matter, but character development is still well done without leaving the action.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book and series, I would also recommend to read them in order starting with Overwatch. You will not be disappointed.
wish-list-possibles
July 10, 2019This is the fourth book in the series out in July 2019. Read Number one first.
December 7, 2019
Entertaining read. Very topical.
Want to read
June 20, 2019I have read all the Logan West books by author Matthew Betley and they never disappoint. Full of action and with a story that keeps moving. Logan West is in the hunt for the Vice President who has left the United States after leading his secret service team into an ambush and their deaths. Logan West is consumed by the need to bring him to justice. This leads to Venezuela and down great action scenes that keep the pages turning.
Thank you Matthew Bentley, Netgalley and Atria books for the ARC for my honest review.
Thank you Matthew Bentley, Netgalley and Atria books for the ARC for my honest review.
July 28, 2019
A legit speeding train of a read!
Rules of War is my absolute favorite of the Logan West series. Not only did Matthew Betley keep a blistering pace throughout the book, but he weaved real emotion in their as well. My heart dropped several times throughout this read! This was all between the racing heart of chase scenes in the middle of earthquakes and literal run away trains! A must read book and series!
Rules of War is my absolute favorite of the Logan West series. Not only did Matthew Betley keep a blistering pace throughout the book, but he weaved real emotion in their as well. My heart dropped several times throughout this read! This was all between the racing heart of chase scenes in the middle of earthquakes and literal run away trains! A must read book and series!
August 30, 2020
This book was everything i was hoping it would be!! Jaguars, and Trains and Earthquakes..OH MY!! In 3 book Matthew Betley has shot up to the latest and greatest series in the genre to date. Recently Betley had tweeted me that The Ice Station by Matthe Betley had inspired him. True to form this novel has loved up to his mentors action per page and chapter quota. I absolutely loved this book!!!
October 20, 2019
This is getting over played at the time i read this. Pair of Americans ... Covert projects/missions... Dry humour...
July 19, 2019
What a great piece of entertainment! Another home run-out of the ballpark hit for Matt Betley!
On the hunt for a traitorous US VP, the locales move across the Caribbean from the Bahamas to Caracas, Venezuela. Betley's Marine sniper experience gives focus to a tactical analysis approach in storytelling with death and mayhem from the opening pages to a surprise finish.
Betley reintroduces many of the secondary characters from his previous 3 books. Viewed in whole, it is a multi-faceted saga of a man overcoming his own demons to step forth in a fight for country and family with God's help. He never falters in his beliefs, his honor, his fight to the death for friendships, brotherhood and the greater good.- A cognizant theme of mil/pol thrillers. The aim for the greater good is what makes America great, not money, not fame, not waving the flag-it's 330 million people standing up to the evils of this world to offer hope and achievement for the freedoms we hold dear-life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This echoes in Betley's works.
Whether by fist, knife, or gun, this plot is loaded with non-stop action, detailed in precision execution until exfil. Alliances seemed to be flipped every other day so the reader becomes so engrossed in keeping track, the pages just fly by. But a Chic-Fil-A pressure cooker as a weapon? Really?
It wouldn't be a "Betley" without the OMG car chases (with a few helicopters, motorcycles, and train thrown in), but who thinks of it in the middle of earthquakes? Think of an LA freeway, packed, at 70mph with heavy traffic and collapsing hillsides everywhere.
Betley's works are about the reality of warfare-he pulls no punches -regarding the carnage and loss of one's held dear. But he lightens the "darkness" with the one-liner quips of a seasoned master, and thoughts of the blessings of children and a pregnant wife.
Like most military, Betley has a strong understanding of the culture and political structure of Latin American nations and doesn't dance around the geopolitics.
I'm a fan of the genre and find that Betley excels in holding the reader entranced throughout the story. His chase scenes involved everything but a bus! Explosions and mayhem galore, and a beautiful twist of an ending.
Betley introduces a few new "unexpecteds" - use of imagery ie: "smell of gunpowder following them like an invisible cloak," and anticipated fatherhood.
Like Brad Thor, Betley only gets better and better as a writer and a "yarn spinner." 5* terrific Read! KUDOS!!
December 3, 2019
My first book by this author and I guess will be the last, as I wasn't impressed at all...
It's a somewhat pleasant and entertaining action book, with some hunting going on by this superhero powerful and invincible that won't let anything come interfere with successfully completing his mission...
However, the author is using the godmoding technique, which in and of itself is lowering the quality of the plot, of the characters, of the dialogue and not lastly, of the experience we, the readers have facing such an unrealistic protagonist, with a lot of powers and no weaknesses to speak of...
Also, it looks, it feels to me the speed at which the action happens, the events take place, or we move from one scene to the next one, is too fast, sometimes hard to follow or to keep up... one time we are in one place witnessing some kind of action or event and all of the sudden that's gone and we are presented with a new scene, yet, without a clear resolution of the previous scene... to me, that's hard to follow, and as such not so pleasant...
I for one, I expect from a book of this type, some easy and pleasant way to go by, to pass the time, to dive in the imaginary world of the book, even to be entertained... In this case, it's an attempt, yet not a very good one to me, not very convincing, but yet again, me I am very picky and I have my standards set quite high, mainly because my time to spend with books is limited, as such I have to be quite selective, since there are so many good books and authors out there and so little time...
It may worth a try, the book is not of poor quality or horrible, nothing like that, so it may worth a try, but maybe borrow it from your local library and see if you like it, before spending your hard-earned money to purchase it so you can own it... me, I did just that, in fact I stumble across it at the library, so I said to myself why not see what's all about... but, I don't think I'll continue to follow this author and definitely I don't think I'll buy any of the books by this author...
It's a somewhat pleasant and entertaining action book, with some hunting going on by this superhero powerful and invincible that won't let anything come interfere with successfully completing his mission...
However, the author is using the godmoding technique, which in and of itself is lowering the quality of the plot, of the characters, of the dialogue and not lastly, of the experience we, the readers have facing such an unrealistic protagonist, with a lot of powers and no weaknesses to speak of...
Also, it looks, it feels to me the speed at which the action happens, the events take place, or we move from one scene to the next one, is too fast, sometimes hard to follow or to keep up... one time we are in one place witnessing some kind of action or event and all of the sudden that's gone and we are presented with a new scene, yet, without a clear resolution of the previous scene... to me, that's hard to follow, and as such not so pleasant...
I for one, I expect from a book of this type, some easy and pleasant way to go by, to pass the time, to dive in the imaginary world of the book, even to be entertained... In this case, it's an attempt, yet not a very good one to me, not very convincing, but yet again, me I am very picky and I have my standards set quite high, mainly because my time to spend with books is limited, as such I have to be quite selective, since there are so many good books and authors out there and so little time...
It may worth a try, the book is not of poor quality or horrible, nothing like that, so it may worth a try, but maybe borrow it from your local library and see if you like it, before spending your hard-earned money to purchase it so you can own it... me, I did just that, in fact I stumble across it at the library, so I said to myself why not see what's all about... but, I don't think I'll continue to follow this author and definitely I don't think I'll buy any of the books by this author...
July 19, 2020
If you are looking for an adrenaline packed thriller that barely lets you catch your breath between action scenes and yet still tells a coherent story that gives you exciting and relentless characters, Matthew Betley's fourth book in his Logan West series is just what you need to be reading.
I've read all four books in this series and when you see other authors refer to Betley as a rising star in the action thriller genre, they ain't just whistling dixie here.
Logan and his team are on the hunt for the traitorous Joshua Baker. The now former Vice President of the United States was also a member of the criminal group The Organization responsible for an untold number of crimes and deaths.
Exposed and on the run, the vice president is on the way to Venezuela. But so is Logan and his task force. Along the way, West ends up with some new allies from surprising sources. But the hunt for the fugitive is complicated by varied obstacles in their way.
This leads to many bullets flying and the letting of many bodies hitting the floor. The implacable West will let nothing stop him in tracking down Baker, whose actions hit home for West in past novels.
But Baker is still wielding a lot of power and others in Logan's life are in the crosshairs as a means of distracting him from the goal.
Sometimes in these types of action thrillers the heroes seem to good to be true. That's possible to see here as well but as you are caught up in the story, you don't care. What seems impossible to believe could be done doesn't matter because Betley's grasp of tactics, situations and the limits these soldiers would push themselves to is top notch. And that makes each seemingly wild set piece that much more grounded and gives readers the ability to believe it could happen.
The Logan West series has been a joy to read during the first three books and with RULES OF WAR, that joy continues unabated.
I've read all four books in this series and when you see other authors refer to Betley as a rising star in the action thriller genre, they ain't just whistling dixie here.
Logan and his team are on the hunt for the traitorous Joshua Baker. The now former Vice President of the United States was also a member of the criminal group The Organization responsible for an untold number of crimes and deaths.
Exposed and on the run, the vice president is on the way to Venezuela. But so is Logan and his task force. Along the way, West ends up with some new allies from surprising sources. But the hunt for the fugitive is complicated by varied obstacles in their way.
This leads to many bullets flying and the letting of many bodies hitting the floor. The implacable West will let nothing stop him in tracking down Baker, whose actions hit home for West in past novels.
But Baker is still wielding a lot of power and others in Logan's life are in the crosshairs as a means of distracting him from the goal.
Sometimes in these types of action thrillers the heroes seem to good to be true. That's possible to see here as well but as you are caught up in the story, you don't care. What seems impossible to believe could be done doesn't matter because Betley's grasp of tactics, situations and the limits these soldiers would push themselves to is top notch. And that makes each seemingly wild set piece that much more grounded and gives readers the ability to believe it could happen.
The Logan West series has been a joy to read during the first three books and with RULES OF WAR, that joy continues unabated.
May 23, 2019
If you are a fan of James Rollins get in on the Logan West series. That is my best advice. (As if my advice means anything).
Rules of War picks up where Field of Valor of left off. While most of the world believes the vice president of the United States has been kidnapped, the truth is the manipulative and dangerous man is on the run.
Logan and his team are on a deadly mission. Their goal is to capture and bring the vice president to justice. The problem is there are so many players in the game getting from point a to point b is easier said than done.
In a fast-paced race against dangerous enemies, and mother nature, Logan has his work cut out. Through questionable alliances and trustworthy friends the team attempts against near impossible odds to thwart the vice president and the sinister plans at hand!
Betley does para-military thrillers like few authors can. This book (as with the first three in the series are complex, but straight-forward) is as compelling as they come. Set aside a few hours. Once you start reading you won't be able to put the book down until the explosive conclusion!
Phillip Tomasso
Author of the crime novel YOU CHOOSE
and the supernatural thriller WOMAN IN THE WOODS
Rules of War picks up where Field of Valor of left off. While most of the world believes the vice president of the United States has been kidnapped, the truth is the manipulative and dangerous man is on the run.
Logan and his team are on a deadly mission. Their goal is to capture and bring the vice president to justice. The problem is there are so many players in the game getting from point a to point b is easier said than done.
In a fast-paced race against dangerous enemies, and mother nature, Logan has his work cut out. Through questionable alliances and trustworthy friends the team attempts against near impossible odds to thwart the vice president and the sinister plans at hand!
Betley does para-military thrillers like few authors can. This book (as with the first three in the series are complex, but straight-forward) is as compelling as they come. Set aside a few hours. Once you start reading you won't be able to put the book down until the explosive conclusion!
Phillip Tomasso
Author of the crime novel YOU CHOOSE
and the supernatural thriller WOMAN IN THE WOODS
May 29, 2019
I received the ARC via a goodread giveaway.
I found this book so enticing that I have ordered the book that came prior; don’t get me wrong. This was an excellent stand alone book, but I found myself so totally immersed that I was disappointed that I didn’t have more in this series to read!
According to the info on the book…..
The vice president of the United States is missing, the director of the National Security Agency has been assassinated, and the mysterious organization orchestrating global instability is in tatters. ..
Logan West has been tasked to quietly and effectively find the missing Vice President and return to the United States so he can face justice for treason! West is accompanied by his small but efficient task force, but finds himself in need of extra help in the form of former enemies and Venezuelan assassins.
The tempo builds and the reader’s heart pounds as the search for the missing VP gears up and natural disaster steps in to thwart plans.
Logan knows that every step he takes could be his last. He also knows that returning the VP to the USA could destabilize his own country; how can he keep to task while foing what is truly best for all involved?
June 2, 2020
I did enjoy, action packed as usual. I still feel the second book in the series was the absolute best and the closest to the Mitch Rapp series. This book was good but the author is starting to do way too much in the action seems to me. Every action scene has enough different moments in it to last through the whole book. One scene they could be falling off a building after they jumped off and airplane, then they get thrown in the air from a grenade while they just got shot three times in their vest, and probably flipped 10 times in a vehicle accident then finish the scene with a fist/knife fight. And that’s to start the book out. Also another funny thing is how he does note everything that is used, one thing is doing all the firearms, the size of the rounds, what kind and how much gun powder, the model, serial number and size of firearm, even in this book explain the exact kind of police radio in the police car. I do like the explanations but sometimes it can’t go to far in saying all that, I do enjoy the characters. Crazy story.
June 1, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for the review copy of this book.
With his latest novel Matthew Betley puts himself firmly in contention with the likes of Matthew Reilly as the king of action novels. Picking up straight where the previous novel left off with the traitorous ex vice president on the run, we follow Logan West and his team around the world in a chase to catch him and bring him to justice.
The action starts from page one and doesn't let up until the very end. Not only are there multiple gunfights, explosions and a scene involving some very hungry sharks, the team even has to fight mother nature herself to bring the Vice President to justice.
Highly recommended for all action fans and cant wait for the next adventure with Logan West.
With his latest novel Matthew Betley puts himself firmly in contention with the likes of Matthew Reilly as the king of action novels. Picking up straight where the previous novel left off with the traitorous ex vice president on the run, we follow Logan West and his team around the world in a chase to catch him and bring him to justice.
The action starts from page one and doesn't let up until the very end. Not only are there multiple gunfights, explosions and a scene involving some very hungry sharks, the team even has to fight mother nature herself to bring the Vice President to justice.
Highly recommended for all action fans and cant wait for the next adventure with Logan West.
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