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Ben Bracken #1
A Wanted Man
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
It’s down to fathers and fatherhood.
Ben Bracken, ex-soldier, has just got out of Strangeways.
Not by the front door.
With him, he has his ‘insurance policy’ – a bag of evidence that will guarantee his freedom, provided he can keep it safe – and he has money, carefully looked after by a friend, Jack Brooker.
Rejected by the army, disowned by his father, and any hopes of parenthood long since shattered, Ben has no anchors in his life.
No one to keep him steady.
No one to stop his cause…
The plan: to wreak justice on the man who had put him in prison in the first place.
Terry ‘The Turn-Up’ Masters, a nasty piece of work, whose crime organisation is based in London.
But before Ben can get started on his mission, another matter is brought to his attention: Jack’s father has been murdered and he will not rest until the killers are found.
Suddenly, Ben finds himself drawn in to helping Jack in his quest for revenge.
In the process, he descends into the fold of Manchester’s most notorious crime organisation – the Berg – the very people he wants to bring down…
This action-packed and fast-paced story will keep you turning the pages. Manchester is vividly portrayed as Ben races around the city seeking vengeance.
It’s down to fathers and fatherhood.
Ben Bracken, ex-soldier, has just got out of Strangeways.
Not by the front door.
With him, he has his ‘insurance policy’ – a bag of evidence that will guarantee his freedom, provided he can keep it safe – and he has money, carefully looked after by a friend, Jack Brooker.
Rejected by the army, disowned by his father, and any hopes of parenthood long since shattered, Ben has no anchors in his life.
No one to keep him steady.
No one to stop his cause…
The plan: to wreak justice on the man who had put him in prison in the first place.
Terry ‘The Turn-Up’ Masters, a nasty piece of work, whose crime organisation is based in London.
But before Ben can get started on his mission, another matter is brought to his attention: Jack’s father has been murdered and he will not rest until the killers are found.
Suddenly, Ben finds himself drawn in to helping Jack in his quest for revenge.
In the process, he descends into the fold of Manchester’s most notorious crime organisation – the Berg – the very people he wants to bring down…
This action-packed and fast-paced story will keep you turning the pages. Manchester is vividly portrayed as Ben races around the city seeking vengeance.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2014
533 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
Rob Parker
31 books69 followersRob Parker is a married father of three, who lives in Warrington, UK. The author of the Ben Bracken thrillers, Crook’s Hollow and the Audible bestseller Far From The Tree, he enjoys a rural life, writing horrible things between school runs. Rob writes full time, attends various author events across the UK, and boxes regularly for charity.
He spends a lot of time in schools across the North, encouraging literacy, story-telling and creative-writing, and somehow squeezes in time to co-host the For Your Reconsideration film podcast, appear regularly on The Blood Brothers Crime Podcast, and is a member of the Northern Crime Syndicate.
He spends a lot of time in schools across the North, encouraging literacy, story-telling and creative-writing, and somehow squeezes in time to co-host the For Your Reconsideration film podcast, appear regularly on The Blood Brothers Crime Podcast, and is a member of the Northern Crime Syndicate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 15, 2017
Excellent crime thriller
What a great ending! A criminal breaks out of prison somehow as our story begins, the story is a little slow as he reaches people to help him , one being his best friend Jack. His friend looks horrible, refusing to explain to Ben why. We find Ben had been in the army,serving his country, when an attack goes
badly with only one surviving man plus himself. The problem is the other man is seriously hurt, and after begging Ben to kill him for hours, he finally does. This brought problems as he was stripped of his rank and sent away, later put in jail for murder. The story goes quickly from here as Ben tries to help his friend and get justice for himself. A great ending with good scenes , overall a fun read.
What a great ending! A criminal breaks out of prison somehow as our story begins, the story is a little slow as he reaches people to help him , one being his best friend Jack. His friend looks horrible, refusing to explain to Ben why. We find Ben had been in the army,serving his country, when an attack goes
badly with only one surviving man plus himself. The problem is the other man is seriously hurt, and after begging Ben to kill him for hours, he finally does. This brought problems as he was stripped of his rank and sent away, later put in jail for murder. The story goes quickly from here as Ben tries to help his friend and get justice for himself. A great ending with good scenes , overall a fun read.
August 11, 2020
Ben Bracken, ex-soldier, has just got out of Strangeways. Not by the front door!
With him, he has his ‘insurance policy’ – a bag of evidence that will guarantee his freedom, provided he can keep it safe.
Be Bracken was in the army for 10 years serving his country and queen and was proud of that, his family were proud of him too, he managed to climb the ranks to Captain until he made the wrong decision, losing his army career and his family.
So now rejected by the army, disowned by his father, and any hopes of parenthood long since shattered, Ben has no anchors in his life. But first he has to help his friend Jack, who wants to catch the man who killed his dad. But maybe Ben will be involved in more than he expected. But some of it helps towards his cause of getting rid of some of the gangsters. Not everything goes as expected, and some characters are not what you expect.
No one to stop his cause… The plan: to wreak justice on the man who had put him in prison in the first place, a ruthless mob boss who heads a powerful crime syndicate.
This action-packed and fast-paced story will keep you turning the pages...As the story unfolds.
A strong enough story, a well paced book and character and a finish that has made me buy Book 2 in the series.
Also important to remember always tough with a first in the series, the character can get better as you get to know him.
Praise for A Wanted Man 'One of the UK's finest thriller writers' - M. W. Craven, bestselling author of the Washington Poe series
‘A stunning debut thriller filled with brutal, breakneck action and seductive, brilliant prose combined with a compelling, credible hero –
With him, he has his ‘insurance policy’ – a bag of evidence that will guarantee his freedom, provided he can keep it safe.
Be Bracken was in the army for 10 years serving his country and queen and was proud of that, his family were proud of him too, he managed to climb the ranks to Captain until he made the wrong decision, losing his army career and his family.
So now rejected by the army, disowned by his father, and any hopes of parenthood long since shattered, Ben has no anchors in his life. But first he has to help his friend Jack, who wants to catch the man who killed his dad. But maybe Ben will be involved in more than he expected. But some of it helps towards his cause of getting rid of some of the gangsters. Not everything goes as expected, and some characters are not what you expect.
No one to stop his cause… The plan: to wreak justice on the man who had put him in prison in the first place, a ruthless mob boss who heads a powerful crime syndicate.
This action-packed and fast-paced story will keep you turning the pages...As the story unfolds.
A strong enough story, a well paced book and character and a finish that has made me buy Book 2 in the series.
Also important to remember always tough with a first in the series, the character can get better as you get to know him.
Praise for A Wanted Man 'One of the UK's finest thriller writers' - M. W. Craven, bestselling author of the Washington Poe series
‘A stunning debut thriller filled with brutal, breakneck action and seductive, brilliant prose combined with a compelling, credible hero –
July 4, 2017
I am always in the mood for a good crime/gangster novel. Yet, I have to tell you that this book is not just a "good" book, it is a "awesome" book. Mr. Parker took me into Ben's world full of betrayal, blood, fireworks, loyalty, and revenge.
Ben is the everyone's man. He has been through hell and back. However, he shows that there is still a heart underneath all that tough exterior. Therefore, I would not want to be on the receiving end of Ben's fury. Thus, Ben comes into contact with one of the biggest mob bosses, Felix. Terry "The Turn-Up" Masters will have to wait. Felix messed with the wrong persons...Jack. Jack was there for Ben. Ben will attempt to take down Felix even if it means blood will be spilled.
The storyline was strong as were the characters. Additionally, this story did not have foul language. It just goes to show you that not all gangster novels need or require strong language. Besides a strong storyline, the action was plentiful. There was no down time in the story. I could see this book being on both the small and big screen.
Ben is the everyone's man. He has been through hell and back. However, he shows that there is still a heart underneath all that tough exterior. Therefore, I would not want to be on the receiving end of Ben's fury. Thus, Ben comes into contact with one of the biggest mob bosses, Felix. Terry "The Turn-Up" Masters will have to wait. Felix messed with the wrong persons...Jack. Jack was there for Ben. Ben will attempt to take down Felix even if it means blood will be spilled.
The storyline was strong as were the characters. Additionally, this story did not have foul language. It just goes to show you that not all gangster novels need or require strong language. Besides a strong storyline, the action was plentiful. There was no down time in the story. I could see this book being on both the small and big screen.
April 14, 2020
I saw an advertisement for this book claiming it would be great for fans of Jack Reacher. Other than the fact that they can both be brutal in a fight and are ex military I do not really see any similarities. While reading this book I also thought it was a debut story. I did manage to finish this story, but it is extremely unlikely that I will pick up another. While researching the author and the series to write the review I discovered that these books have been repackaged at least three times. The original title of this one was The Baby And The Brandy, and published under the name Robert Parker. By no way to be confused with Robert B. Parker of the Spencer For Hire novels and fame. The most recent iteration is the version I read.
I believe currently there are 4 novels available in this iteration of the series. And there is another Series Called Ben Bracken Origins with 5 stories but can only find paperback editions of that and am not certain if it is the same series under yet another name and titles.
The story is part Equalizer and part Punisher. Ben Bracken has escaped prison and is intent on getting the guy who set him up. He is a disgraced former British soldier. He by chance gets pulled into a top criminal gang because of a guy on the outside who owed him. And everything falls into place for him. And he will attempt to clean the floor with them before moving on to his original target. Consider it a warmup, or test run.
Reading or watching fiction there is a certain suspension of disbelief. I found this one just stretched the bounds way too much. The inconsistencies in Ben’s character, his sense of justice but willing to break any rule. Everything falling in place like dominos lined up in a row. And if I had not been on a long commute to and from work, I likely would have given up on the story. Part of me wishes I had.
Advertised as the UK’s answer to Jack Reacher, this is not that! And if that is the reason you are picking it up, don’t bother.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More.
I believe currently there are 4 novels available in this iteration of the series. And there is another Series Called Ben Bracken Origins with 5 stories but can only find paperback editions of that and am not certain if it is the same series under yet another name and titles.
The story is part Equalizer and part Punisher. Ben Bracken has escaped prison and is intent on getting the guy who set him up. He is a disgraced former British soldier. He by chance gets pulled into a top criminal gang because of a guy on the outside who owed him. And everything falls into place for him. And he will attempt to clean the floor with them before moving on to his original target. Consider it a warmup, or test run.
Reading or watching fiction there is a certain suspension of disbelief. I found this one just stretched the bounds way too much. The inconsistencies in Ben’s character, his sense of justice but willing to break any rule. Everything falling in place like dominos lined up in a row. And if I had not been on a long commute to and from work, I likely would have given up on the story. Part of me wishes I had.
Advertised as the UK’s answer to Jack Reacher, this is not that! And if that is the reason you are picking it up, don’t bother.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More.
December 21, 2018
If you enjoyed Jack Reacher and have a thing for Luther then Ben Bracken should be next on your list. This stunning debut from Robert Parker ticks all the boxes.
I love the grey and black cover with the bright orange and blue font, it really works. It captures the essence of the book perfectly.
This fast-paced read gets your heart pumping from page one and it does not stop. It played like a movie in my head. Ben Bracken is top notch, in an emergency you want him on your side. With realistic characters and breathtaking chapters, I was hooked. It was so unpredictable which was very refreshing, I had no clue where it was going.
The actions scenes were beautifully written and you felt all the drama and action as it unfolded. With just enough oomph so it wasn’t far-fetched in any way shape or form.
Robert Parker is an author to watch add his books to your TBR today. A Wanted Man has everything you could want from a crime fiction novel. The good news is there is a sequel already available too called Moret Point. Review for that to come very soon.
So do yourself a favour for 2019, visit your local bookstore or head over to Amazon and make this your first read of the new year.
I highly recommend this roller coaster of a book, extremely well written. Robert Parker is one to watch!
I love the grey and black cover with the bright orange and blue font, it really works. It captures the essence of the book perfectly.
This fast-paced read gets your heart pumping from page one and it does not stop. It played like a movie in my head. Ben Bracken is top notch, in an emergency you want him on your side. With realistic characters and breathtaking chapters, I was hooked. It was so unpredictable which was very refreshing, I had no clue where it was going.
The actions scenes were beautifully written and you felt all the drama and action as it unfolded. With just enough oomph so it wasn’t far-fetched in any way shape or form.
Robert Parker is an author to watch add his books to your TBR today. A Wanted Man has everything you could want from a crime fiction novel. The good news is there is a sequel already available too called Moret Point. Review for that to come very soon.
So do yourself a favour for 2019, visit your local bookstore or head over to Amazon and make this your first read of the new year.
I highly recommend this roller coaster of a book, extremely well written. Robert Parker is one to watch!
September 28, 2017
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Robert Parker has a very intriguing writing style. He doesn’t actually have you get POV’s in the traditional sense but he does give you the story in Ben’s eyes. We see his past and what led him to where he is now. We see the present and how the past blends into it and we see possible futures as well. Futures that depending on the way he turns changes it. It reminds me of those book as a kind where they stop and say if you want this turn to page such and such...and each time you can get multiple stories and ending because after a scene that brings you to a climax they ask that question. Ben does this with himself. He gets to a point and questions what to do. And it could go many ways..We even see that it could and it is his choices that ultimately bring him on his path to getting his just due.
Ben is a honorable man. He is flawed and has made mistakes. he is what the system created as well. Or many systems created. His life took a wrong turn and spiraled. Spiraled in a way he couldn’t control. So he takes back that control. He also takes skills he learned in the Army to find a new I guess you could say career. He is one that wants revenge and justice. He wants to stop bad guys but also help his friend get some peace and be able to move on. That doesn’t end as hoped but he does get his friend justice in the end.
The story is action paged and intriguing. There isn’t a moment that some danger is there and has a heartbeat. You feel all that is going on through Ben’s eyes. This is where Parker does the best writing. He has you in the story and walking it in Ben’s shoes. You can see what he sees and feels. You understand as if you are there what he must do and why. He goes after the ones that harm others in subtle ways and not so subtle ways. He is the everyman. The one that is who we see mowing the lawn and wanting to make a difference but who also hides in the shadows and does what no one else has the courage to do. He gets his hands dirty and tries to make a change. I love the twists in the book and especially how he ends up working with the police even though it is the last thing you would expect. the story isn’t what you expect and doesn’t always go the way you think it would. You see that many are not as they put out and seem. The gentle can be really cutthroat and some are wanting a better life and out of the dangerous world they are drowning in. Parker gives us all walks of life, all situations when in such a dirt world and a flawed but honorable hero who wants to do good even if he has to get in the much to do it. The story is fast paced and captivating and truly keeps you on your toes as Parker’s words immerse you into Ben’s world and his path. I am interested to see what is next for Ben and where Parker is taking him and his police help.
Robert Parker has a very intriguing writing style. He doesn’t actually have you get POV’s in the traditional sense but he does give you the story in Ben’s eyes. We see his past and what led him to where he is now. We see the present and how the past blends into it and we see possible futures as well. Futures that depending on the way he turns changes it. It reminds me of those book as a kind where they stop and say if you want this turn to page such and such...and each time you can get multiple stories and ending because after a scene that brings you to a climax they ask that question. Ben does this with himself. He gets to a point and questions what to do. And it could go many ways..We even see that it could and it is his choices that ultimately bring him on his path to getting his just due.
Ben is a honorable man. He is flawed and has made mistakes. he is what the system created as well. Or many systems created. His life took a wrong turn and spiraled. Spiraled in a way he couldn’t control. So he takes back that control. He also takes skills he learned in the Army to find a new I guess you could say career. He is one that wants revenge and justice. He wants to stop bad guys but also help his friend get some peace and be able to move on. That doesn’t end as hoped but he does get his friend justice in the end.
The story is action paged and intriguing. There isn’t a moment that some danger is there and has a heartbeat. You feel all that is going on through Ben’s eyes. This is where Parker does the best writing. He has you in the story and walking it in Ben’s shoes. You can see what he sees and feels. You understand as if you are there what he must do and why. He goes after the ones that harm others in subtle ways and not so subtle ways. He is the everyman. The one that is who we see mowing the lawn and wanting to make a difference but who also hides in the shadows and does what no one else has the courage to do. He gets his hands dirty and tries to make a change. I love the twists in the book and especially how he ends up working with the police even though it is the last thing you would expect. the story isn’t what you expect and doesn’t always go the way you think it would. You see that many are not as they put out and seem. The gentle can be really cutthroat and some are wanting a better life and out of the dangerous world they are drowning in. Parker gives us all walks of life, all situations when in such a dirt world and a flawed but honorable hero who wants to do good even if he has to get in the much to do it. The story is fast paced and captivating and truly keeps you on your toes as Parker’s words immerse you into Ben’s world and his path. I am interested to see what is next for Ben and where Parker is taking him and his police help.
May 29, 2017
A wanted man by Robert Parker.
Ben Bracken, ex-soldier, has just got out of Strangeways.
Not by the front door.
He was set up and now he has escaped Strangeways with something that will keep him alive and safe. Also his friends father was shot and he wants Ben to find out who did it. Fantastic read with brilliant characters. Loved Ben. He was my favourite character. I really wanted him to get justice for what happened to him. OMG full of action. Did not see that coming. Shocked. Perfect ending. 5*. Netgalley and Endeavour press.
Ben Bracken, ex-soldier, has just got out of Strangeways.
Not by the front door.
He was set up and now he has escaped Strangeways with something that will keep him alive and safe. Also his friends father was shot and he wants Ben to find out who did it. Fantastic read with brilliant characters. Loved Ben. He was my favourite character. I really wanted him to get justice for what happened to him. OMG full of action. Did not see that coming. Shocked. Perfect ending. 5*. Netgalley and Endeavour press.
February 4, 2018
Hard boiled crime thriller
Ben Bracken is not a man to be played with! Parker has created a fascinating anti hero and plonked him seamlessly into the Manchester underworld. Intrigued to see where Parker taken Bracken next.
Ben Bracken is not a man to be played with! Parker has created a fascinating anti hero and plonked him seamlessly into the Manchester underworld. Intrigued to see where Parker taken Bracken next.
January 20, 2018
A find !
After slogging through too many good plots badly told I am delighted by this book. Here is an author who can match his writing to the story. Taut, fast, not a word or an action too many. Plenty of violence, but it fits the telling and the doing.
After slogging through too many good plots badly told I am delighted by this book. Here is an author who can match his writing to the story. Taut, fast, not a word or an action too many. Plenty of violence, but it fits the telling and the doing.
October 13, 2017
A Wanted Man doesn’t disappoint; it’s a gritty, fast-paced story set in Manchester that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The protagonist, Ben Bracken, is an army reject serving time in Strangeways on a murder rap. Engineering his own escape, Ben embarks on a personal vendetta to hunt down the man who put him inside, but is side-tracked by a friend whose cry for help leads him into the murky world of organised crime. Ben is an honourable character, deeply reflective and caring, yet uncompromising in his quest for justice. He is refreshingly different from other literary ex-military heroes. Robert’s writing style is unique and a pleasure to read, and the picture he paints is both evocative and disturbing. With a Soprano-like family, the arch villain of the piece could easily be one of my relatives – but thank God he’s not. I can’t wait to read Robert’s sequel.
July 12, 2017
MY THOUGHTS
There's two ways to get out of jail., through the front door and any other way you can. That's what Ben Bracken did. He left Strangeways but not by the front door. Ex-soldier, set up for a crime he didn't commit, but he was leaving with something that will be his insurance for freedom. He just has to keep it safe. You wanted Ben to prove his freedom and find out who committed the crime. Another thing he wants to do is find out who shot his friend's father. Ben has his hands full. Ben really has no one to stand beside him, he was rejected by the army, his own father disowned him, his hopes of a family, well, that's gone too. He's wanting justice so bad he can taste it, but what kind of justice is Ben thinking about? The action is constant. You want Ben to have someone to help him find justice the right way, to stand beside him, to love him. Things will happen that will shock you. You won't see them coming until you turn that page. In the process for justice or possibly revenge, Ben gets caught up in the most noted crime mob of Manchester called the Berg. These are the people he's looking to bring to justice or get revenge on. Did Ben accidently get caught up in the Berg or was it planned? The author doesn't give you the option to put the book down. There is so much you want to know and the pace is fast that you keep turning the pages as fast as you can. I think the author gave fantastic descriptions of the characters and the setting of Manchester.
Will Ben find justice through the right channels or will it be revenge? Is there any chance for someone to love Ben and stand beside him? Well, pick up a copy and find out. Be prepared, once you start reading you won't want to let go.
I was given a copy of this book from the author and PUYB and voluntarily decided to review it.
There's two ways to get out of jail., through the front door and any other way you can. That's what Ben Bracken did. He left Strangeways but not by the front door. Ex-soldier, set up for a crime he didn't commit, but he was leaving with something that will be his insurance for freedom. He just has to keep it safe. You wanted Ben to prove his freedom and find out who committed the crime. Another thing he wants to do is find out who shot his friend's father. Ben has his hands full. Ben really has no one to stand beside him, he was rejected by the army, his own father disowned him, his hopes of a family, well, that's gone too. He's wanting justice so bad he can taste it, but what kind of justice is Ben thinking about? The action is constant. You want Ben to have someone to help him find justice the right way, to stand beside him, to love him. Things will happen that will shock you. You won't see them coming until you turn that page. In the process for justice or possibly revenge, Ben gets caught up in the most noted crime mob of Manchester called the Berg. These are the people he's looking to bring to justice or get revenge on. Did Ben accidently get caught up in the Berg or was it planned? The author doesn't give you the option to put the book down. There is so much you want to know and the pace is fast that you keep turning the pages as fast as you can. I think the author gave fantastic descriptions of the characters and the setting of Manchester.
Will Ben find justice through the right channels or will it be revenge? Is there any chance for someone to love Ben and stand beside him? Well, pick up a copy and find out. Be prepared, once you start reading you won't want to let go.
I was given a copy of this book from the author and PUYB and voluntarily decided to review it.
September 1, 2020
A Wanted Man by Rob Parker is the first in the Ben Bracken series, and I was well and truly hooked from page one.
Ben Bracken, an ex-soldier, has engineered his own escape from prison, on a mission to seek revenge on the man who put him there. It soon becomes clear that Bracken is one of the good guys, and I found myself rooting for him immediately. Bracken is side-tracked by an old friend Jack, who desperately needs his help following the murder of his father. Before long, he is tangled up with the biggest crime mob in Manchester: the Berg.
This pacey, action-packed thriller will lead you through the streets of Manchester, lure you into the murky world of organised crime and leave you on the edge of your seat. The explosive action scenes were particularly well-written and full of the drama you crave from this kind of book. I have to say, I could totally see this playing out at a film. Reader, I challenge you to try and put this book down!
With an expertly-crafted plot, perfectly-flawed characters, plenty of twists and turns and a brilliant ending that I didn't see coming, I wholeheartedly recommend this if you like your thrillers gritty, dark and packed full of action.
Ben Bracken, an ex-soldier, has engineered his own escape from prison, on a mission to seek revenge on the man who put him there. It soon becomes clear that Bracken is one of the good guys, and I found myself rooting for him immediately. Bracken is side-tracked by an old friend Jack, who desperately needs his help following the murder of his father. Before long, he is tangled up with the biggest crime mob in Manchester: the Berg.
This pacey, action-packed thriller will lead you through the streets of Manchester, lure you into the murky world of organised crime and leave you on the edge of your seat. The explosive action scenes were particularly well-written and full of the drama you crave from this kind of book. I have to say, I could totally see this playing out at a film. Reader, I challenge you to try and put this book down!
With an expertly-crafted plot, perfectly-flawed characters, plenty of twists and turns and a brilliant ending that I didn't see coming, I wholeheartedly recommend this if you like your thrillers gritty, dark and packed full of action.
April 15, 2020
This was an impressive debut novel from Rob Parker.
It’s a thriller that takes place in Manchester, with Manchester being a character in play as much as any of the others.
An ex-serviceman who has escaped from prison, a mystery package in his possession and a grudge that needs to be settled with a ruthless underworld boss.
Sounds like a great premise and it is. Parker writes like an old friend telling a story over a pint in your local. As a debut, this novel showed a lot of promise and judging on the following continuing titles it was a promise that was fulfilled.
The finale is pretty epic, as are the twists and turns in this Brit thriller that reads like it was written for a BBC drama.
Check it out.
5/5
It’s a thriller that takes place in Manchester, with Manchester being a character in play as much as any of the others.
An ex-serviceman who has escaped from prison, a mystery package in his possession and a grudge that needs to be settled with a ruthless underworld boss.
Sounds like a great premise and it is. Parker writes like an old friend telling a story over a pint in your local. As a debut, this novel showed a lot of promise and judging on the following continuing titles it was a promise that was fulfilled.
The finale is pretty epic, as are the twists and turns in this Brit thriller that reads like it was written for a BBC drama.
Check it out.
5/5
November 29, 2017
A Wanted Man means exactly what it says. Ben Bracken is A Wanted Man he just walked out of prison and is now on the run. Yeah Ben is on the run, but he has his insurance policy though and hopefully in a safe place and he intends on making the people who helped put him in prison pay. Ben wants justice and he plans on getting it his way.
Ben gets held up somewhat on his plans when his friend Jack’s father is killed and he wants Ben to help him find who killed him and make them pay. While Ben is investigating Jack’s father’s death he runs into some rough people who are called the Berg sort of like the mob. The Berg is just the kind of people that Ben wants to take down and make pay for all the wrong doings they have done in the world.
When things start to heat up and secrets start flying around Ben just may be in a world of trouble but probably not anything that he can’t handle. Ben is one tough dude and ex-soldier who knows what he is doing and can hang with the best of them.
A Wanted Man is action packed and filled with more mystery than you can shake a stick at. It will grab a hold of you right from the first page and won’t let go until the very last word is read. It will keep you guessing from the beginning to the end and that ending will blow your mind.
I would recommend A Wanted Man to anyone who loves a good mystery with lots of action.
Ben gets held up somewhat on his plans when his friend Jack’s father is killed and he wants Ben to help him find who killed him and make them pay. While Ben is investigating Jack’s father’s death he runs into some rough people who are called the Berg sort of like the mob. The Berg is just the kind of people that Ben wants to take down and make pay for all the wrong doings they have done in the world.
When things start to heat up and secrets start flying around Ben just may be in a world of trouble but probably not anything that he can’t handle. Ben is one tough dude and ex-soldier who knows what he is doing and can hang with the best of them.
A Wanted Man is action packed and filled with more mystery than you can shake a stick at. It will grab a hold of you right from the first page and won’t let go until the very last word is read. It will keep you guessing from the beginning to the end and that ending will blow your mind.
I would recommend A Wanted Man to anyone who loves a good mystery with lots of action.
December 7, 2017
A Wanted Man by Robert Parker is a fast-paced thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Here you have a guy done wrong and he's not about to sit down and take it. Can't say that I liked Ben right away, but as his backstory evolved and as he put aside his needs to help Jack, I became more engaged. Superb storytelling and a ton of action kept me reading as quickly and as often as I could manage. I would definitely be interested in more of Parker's work.
If you like action, crime novels, and gangsters, you'll enjoy A Wanted Man by Robert Parker.
If you like action, crime novels, and gangsters, you'll enjoy A Wanted Man by Robert Parker.
June 22, 2017
Good thriller. Action packed with a likeable main character
March 2, 2018
Really enjoyed this thriller, good twists.
August 31, 2020
Ben the Bada$$
This is a decent book and I may consider more by the author. It gets a bit far fetched, but most thrillers do. Worth a read.
This is a decent book and I may consider more by the author. It gets a bit far fetched, but most thrillers do. Worth a read.
September 1, 2020
Great book with a great plot and a lot of action! Enjoyed.
Danny
Danny
September 9, 2020
This was an edge of your seat thriller, thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Can't wait to see what trouble Ben gets into in the next book. Once I got interested in it, it was hard to put down. This is the first book I've read by author Robert Parker and it was really good.
May 11, 2021
★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S A WANTED MAN ABOUT?
Ben Bracken was sent to prison not that long ago, but just walked out a free man—although he wasn't actually released (nor was he scheduled to be). He has some "insurance" to keep him from having to go back and had a little cash set aside for when he was out of prison.
His plan is to get his cash, secure his insurance policy and head off to London to get revenge on the man who got him sent to prison. But before he can do that, his friend Jack has a problem. Jack's father was just murdered and he doesn't see the police—or his father's criminal associates—doing that much to find the killer. Would Ben help? Sure—especially because Jack's also in danger as long as the killer is out there.
Before Ben can enjoy his first beer in years, he's set on a path that will lead him to going up against two crime syndicates, and decades of history, just to get Jack both the answers and safety he needs.
A LITTLE ABOUT BEN
Ben Bracken is yet another soldier who's having a hard time adjusting to society after years of active duty (see also Jack Reacher, Peter Ash, John Rambo, and a couple of other characters whose names slipped my mind as I got to this point), but his sense of duty kept him trying to do good. His early attempts were less than successful, landing him in prison. Now that he's released, he's going to resume his quest (you can practically see him sporting Joe Pike's tattoos—as well as living them out). Sure, he had another initial target in mind, but Jack's situation fit his mission, so he's able to delay his own plan and help Jack out.
But basically, you get the idea that he's going to be another of the modern wandering samurai hero—like Reacher and Ash—just with a different kind of baggage. Namely, being an escaped prisoner in a country where the kind of weapons Reacher and Ash seem to have a steady supply of aren't that readily available. It's a fresh version of that character type, and I'm more than interested.
There's more than just his criminal past to separate him from the typical wandering warrior. He's not a technophobe, actually, he's fairly capable when it comes to the basics of technology (once someone explains what Siri is and how to use it), but he's not a whiz. He has a sense of humor, but he's not cracking jokes all the time—and to say that he has issues with women is understating it, but he'll likely move on from those.
I was pretty much sold on Ben early on, and was invested in the story—but at one point, we get this line:
and I knew I liked Ben, and was probably going to be buying a few more books.
PARKER'S WRITING
The actual writing involved in a book is something I always think about, always take into consideration when rating a book—but it's the thing I have the hardest part discussing. Something about Parker's work here made me want to try it.
There's a lot of this book that comes across as a pretty standard indie thriller. That's not a judgment, it's just a description. In many indie thrillers, there are repeated sections that make me wince (including novels that I like). A Wanted Man has none of those—quite the opposite, he has several sections that are just wonderful.
He can sum up a character in a few words—
I had a few more examples in my notes, but this post is getting too long.
His ability to capture a scene or a room is even better:
Ben and Jack visit a floating restaurant and I could almost think I'd been there.
Sure, some of his descriptions are a bit much—I didn't need that much detail about one man's behavior at a urinal. No one does. But thankfully, those are few and far between (but, sure, I have a crystal clear vision of what happened there).
One more example of how good Parker can be, and then I'll move on. At one point, Bracken visits the house he grew up in. I read the two paragraphs as he left a few times, they were just that good (and hopefully out of context you can tell that)
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT A WANTED MAN?
There's a very "pilot episode" feel to this one—the focus is on introducing Ben Bracken, his world, his situation, and his mission. The actual story seems of secondary importance. Maybe I'm being too harsh—I likely am, but that was the impression I got.
The Epilogue shows that this isn't just going to be a series about Ben's quest for vengeance—there's something else going on. Now Ben just out to get revenge on the man who sent him to prison would probably be worth sticking around to watch. But Ben doing that and the stuff from the Epilogue? Now, that's a winning combination.
Do I recommend this? Absolutely. A great character, a compelling direction for the series, and some strong writing make up for a story that seems pretty boilerplate (but a good boilerplate, don't get me wrong). I'm coming back for more soon, and can see these books becoming a favorite.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
Jack’s father goes missing but turns up dead in a warehouse at Manchester Airport. Shot. Who has access to firearms here in the UK? Farmers, the police, and organised crime. I can’t picture an angry pig farmer losing his shit and heading to Manchester Airport to clip someone. Nor can I especially imagine a police officer doing the same thing, although stranger things have happened. And that leaves the last one. Organised crime.
WHAT'S A WANTED MAN ABOUT?
Ben Bracken was sent to prison not that long ago, but just walked out a free man—although he wasn't actually released (nor was he scheduled to be). He has some "insurance" to keep him from having to go back and had a little cash set aside for when he was out of prison.
His plan is to get his cash, secure his insurance policy and head off to London to get revenge on the man who got him sent to prison. But before he can do that, his friend Jack has a problem. Jack's father was just murdered and he doesn't see the police—or his father's criminal associates—doing that much to find the killer. Would Ben help? Sure—especially because Jack's also in danger as long as the killer is out there.
Before Ben can enjoy his first beer in years, he's set on a path that will lead him to going up against two crime syndicates, and decades of history, just to get Jack both the answers and safety he needs.
A LITTLE ABOUT BEN
But… I feel a nagging. That familiar tug of duty. I carry it everywhere with me even now, bound by it, cajoled by my gratitude to Jack...
My problem is compounded by my brittle, unique moral compass. My idea of good and bad is very black and white, with great streaks of grey smeared straight across the borders between the two– the zone in which I have been known to take matters into my own hands. Those grey areas demand I owe Jack some assistance, even if it is outside of my self-imposed remit.
Ben Bracken is yet another soldier who's having a hard time adjusting to society after years of active duty (see also Jack Reacher, Peter Ash, John Rambo, and a couple of other characters whose names slipped my mind as I got to this point), but his sense of duty kept him trying to do good. His early attempts were less than successful, landing him in prison. Now that he's released, he's going to resume his quest (you can practically see him sporting Joe Pike's tattoos—as well as living them out). Sure, he had another initial target in mind, but Jack's situation fit his mission, so he's able to delay his own plan and help Jack out.
But basically, you get the idea that he's going to be another of the modern wandering samurai hero—like Reacher and Ash—just with a different kind of baggage. Namely, being an escaped prisoner in a country where the kind of weapons Reacher and Ash seem to have a steady supply of aren't that readily available. It's a fresh version of that character type, and I'm more than interested.
There's more than just his criminal past to separate him from the typical wandering warrior. He's not a technophobe, actually, he's fairly capable when it comes to the basics of technology (once someone explains what Siri is and how to use it), but he's not a whiz. He has a sense of humor, but he's not cracking jokes all the time—and to say that he has issues with women is understating it, but he'll likely move on from those.
I was pretty much sold on Ben early on, and was invested in the story—but at one point, we get this line:
I whistle a little (surprised to find my ‘go to’ whistling tune is Somewhere Over The Rainbow), and drop my pocket change noisily onto the dresser.
and I knew I liked Ben, and was probably going to be buying a few more books.
PARKER'S WRITING
The actual writing involved in a book is something I always think about, always take into consideration when rating a book—but it's the thing I have the hardest part discussing. Something about Parker's work here made me want to try it.
There's a lot of this book that comes across as a pretty standard indie thriller. That's not a judgment, it's just a description. In many indie thrillers, there are repeated sections that make me wince (including novels that I like). A Wanted Man has none of those—quite the opposite, he has several sections that are just wonderful.
He can sum up a character in a few words—
The curious obsessive-compulsive aspect of this guy, which, twinned with the seemingly bottomless battery of his energy, gives his personality an almost pathological slant.
His precise, measured way of speaking seems pulled from the pages of a book, exactly how you’d picture someone of his generation learning a foreign language.
I had a few more examples in my notes, but this post is getting too long.
His ability to capture a scene or a room is even better:
I leave the motorway networks as the daylight fades and trundle through the bleak stone township of Glossop, as wild hills begin to sprout out either side of the settlement. I know where I am going, and follow the ‘V’ in the horizon where two hills meet and a road carves through: Snake Pass. Suddenly, the buildings and pavements disappear, and I’m out in the open, rolling through a picture-book patchwork of varying landscapes: undulating rugged grasslands, steep canyon drop-offs, vast forests of tall firs, and a softly lapping reservoir. You could be lost out here, but still feel in touch with the gods. It’s Lord of the Rings country, Tolkien’s inspiration. It’s Britain at its most beautiful, most powerful, most respectful.
Ben and Jack visit a floating restaurant and I could almost think I'd been there.
Sure, some of his descriptions are a bit much—I didn't need that much detail about one man's behavior at a urinal. No one does. But thankfully, those are few and far between (but, sure, I have a crystal clear vision of what happened there).
One more example of how good Parker can be, and then I'll move on. At one point, Bracken visits the house he grew up in. I read the two paragraphs as he left a few times, they were just that good (and hopefully out of context you can tell that)
I walk down the path to the scuffed, mucky pavement. The gum on the concrete beneath my shoes, some of it is undoubtedly mine. My DNA lies at my feet, inseparable from my town, my past. That DNA is now the only evidence I was ever here. Thirty years of love, life, family– all reduced to a dirty bit of gum on an old pavement.
This will steel me. Toughen me. It has to. Because this would, could, should break a lesser man.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT A WANTED MAN?
There's a very "pilot episode" feel to this one—the focus is on introducing Ben Bracken, his world, his situation, and his mission. The actual story seems of secondary importance. Maybe I'm being too harsh—I likely am, but that was the impression I got.
The Epilogue shows that this isn't just going to be a series about Ben's quest for vengeance—there's something else going on. Now Ben just out to get revenge on the man who sent him to prison would probably be worth sticking around to watch. But Ben doing that and the stuff from the Epilogue? Now, that's a winning combination.
Do I recommend this? Absolutely. A great character, a compelling direction for the series, and some strong writing make up for a story that seems pretty boilerplate (but a good boilerplate, don't get me wrong). I'm coming back for more soon, and can see these books becoming a favorite.
October 2, 2019
Ex-soldier Ben Bracken, set-up and fed up, has engineered a break-out from Strangeways Prison and is now looking to settle the score with the London gangland boss that put him behind bars - Terry "The Turn-Up" Masters. He even has an insurance policy that will keep the eyes of the prison authorities elsewhere, while he does the job - if he can keep it safe.
Reconnecting with a young friend from his past, Jack Brooker, who has held Ben's money for him for the two years he has been in prison, it soon becomes clear that Jack is in a spot of bother. Jack's father was part of a nasty criminal gang based in Manchester, called the berg, and he has been the victim of an apparent gangland revenge killing. Jack is desperate to find the killer and extract some vengeance for his father and Ben's sense of duty means that he cannot let him do it alone - and his military training means he has just the right set of skills too.
As Jack's protector, Ben is drawn into the upper echelons of the berg and earns the admiration of the men at the very top - Felix Davison and his son Michael - who seem keen to aid him in the search for Jack's father's killer. They are so impressed by Ben's resourcefulness that Felix even offers him the chance to take Jack's father's place at the table, and he is forced to play along, eventhough he longs to take them all out - especially once he discovers that the full-scale of their operations make them just like his old nemesis Terry Masters.
But once Ben starts to look closely at the events surrounding the murder of Jack's father, he discovers that things are not quite as Felix and Michael have claimed. There is something else going on here and Ben does not like what he uncovers. Jack is in danger and Ben must find a way to save him from being a victim of the same fate as his father.
But can Ben also take down the berg at the same time?
I was recently honoured to be part of the blog tour for the third cracking installment of the Ben Bracken books, The Penny Black, which I enjoyed enormously. See my review here: The Penny Black (Ben Bracken Book Three) by Rob Parker
It often happens, when you take part on blog tours, that you come upon a book series part way through, and you may not have read the books that have gone before. As a stickler for normally reading books in order, I always try to go back and read the previous books too, to fill in the back-story, though I must admit I do not always get around to this as my tbr pile is pretty enormous.
However, having galloped through the glorious The Penny Black, and I knew straight off that I would be absorbing Ben Bracken's back-story as soon as possible - so here I am, book one A Wanted Man down, and book two, Morte Point, to be consumed very, very soon.
What can I say, Mr Parker? I absolutely loved it!
Ben Bracken's first adventure starts with a prison escape and ends with an almighty ding-dong of a climax that left me rubbing my hands with glee. I particularly loved the way that Bracken's past is revealed slowly, over the course of the book, which I must admit I was not expecting. When you start reading, it is almost like you have missed a previous book (and I did actually double-check that was reading the first and not the second book, by mistake), but by the time you get to the thrilling end of A Wanted Man, you are definitely up to speed with the events that have made Bracken the way he is - a man who was keen to do his utmost to serve Queen and Country, but has been treated rather badly along the way. Bracken maintains his sense of duty, and a desire to do right by people that makes him an ideal sort of "Equalizer" - and he is not afraid to take the law into his own hands to achieve his aim.
There are thrills galore as Bracken sets out to try to save his friend Jack and bring down the mighty force of the berg - violent altercations, shootings, explosions, subterfuge and a literally banging ending - what more could you want? Move over James Bond!
No spoliers, but Bracken is a man on a mission and he is not happy with half-measures. The end of A Wanted Man leaves everything nicely set up of Morte Point, and cannot wait to get started.
Mr Parker, I am very soon going to be in need of the installment that follows on from The Penny Black. I hope you are working you socks off on the next adventure, so I will not have to wait too long!
Reconnecting with a young friend from his past, Jack Brooker, who has held Ben's money for him for the two years he has been in prison, it soon becomes clear that Jack is in a spot of bother. Jack's father was part of a nasty criminal gang based in Manchester, called the berg, and he has been the victim of an apparent gangland revenge killing. Jack is desperate to find the killer and extract some vengeance for his father and Ben's sense of duty means that he cannot let him do it alone - and his military training means he has just the right set of skills too.
As Jack's protector, Ben is drawn into the upper echelons of the berg and earns the admiration of the men at the very top - Felix Davison and his son Michael - who seem keen to aid him in the search for Jack's father's killer. They are so impressed by Ben's resourcefulness that Felix even offers him the chance to take Jack's father's place at the table, and he is forced to play along, eventhough he longs to take them all out - especially once he discovers that the full-scale of their operations make them just like his old nemesis Terry Masters.
But once Ben starts to look closely at the events surrounding the murder of Jack's father, he discovers that things are not quite as Felix and Michael have claimed. There is something else going on here and Ben does not like what he uncovers. Jack is in danger and Ben must find a way to save him from being a victim of the same fate as his father.
But can Ben also take down the berg at the same time?
I was recently honoured to be part of the blog tour for the third cracking installment of the Ben Bracken books, The Penny Black, which I enjoyed enormously. See my review here: The Penny Black (Ben Bracken Book Three) by Rob Parker
It often happens, when you take part on blog tours, that you come upon a book series part way through, and you may not have read the books that have gone before. As a stickler for normally reading books in order, I always try to go back and read the previous books too, to fill in the back-story, though I must admit I do not always get around to this as my tbr pile is pretty enormous.
However, having galloped through the glorious The Penny Black, and I knew straight off that I would be absorbing Ben Bracken's back-story as soon as possible - so here I am, book one A Wanted Man down, and book two, Morte Point, to be consumed very, very soon.
What can I say, Mr Parker? I absolutely loved it!
Ben Bracken's first adventure starts with a prison escape and ends with an almighty ding-dong of a climax that left me rubbing my hands with glee. I particularly loved the way that Bracken's past is revealed slowly, over the course of the book, which I must admit I was not expecting. When you start reading, it is almost like you have missed a previous book (and I did actually double-check that was reading the first and not the second book, by mistake), but by the time you get to the thrilling end of A Wanted Man, you are definitely up to speed with the events that have made Bracken the way he is - a man who was keen to do his utmost to serve Queen and Country, but has been treated rather badly along the way. Bracken maintains his sense of duty, and a desire to do right by people that makes him an ideal sort of "Equalizer" - and he is not afraid to take the law into his own hands to achieve his aim.
There are thrills galore as Bracken sets out to try to save his friend Jack and bring down the mighty force of the berg - violent altercations, shootings, explosions, subterfuge and a literally banging ending - what more could you want? Move over James Bond!
No spoliers, but Bracken is a man on a mission and he is not happy with half-measures. The end of A Wanted Man leaves everything nicely set up of Morte Point, and cannot wait to get started.
Mr Parker, I am very soon going to be in need of the installment that follows on from The Penny Black. I hope you are working you socks off on the next adventure, so I will not have to wait too long!
November 24, 2020
Explosive, vibrant, visceral
Two wrongs do not make a right, but... What would you make your mission, if you could deliver the justice?
Rob Parker's debut, 'A Wanted Man' is a book of many layers. Although it's marketed as a thriller, it's a beautifully written noir filled to the brim with breathtaking action sequences, immaculate storytelling, and phenomenal character development.
The story introduces us to Ben Bracken, a former soldier, whose only desire is to fix the broken world of corruption and villainy. And this is the very cornerstone of every single action he takes. Bracken is flawed and broken, but his endgame is always dictated by the moral compass he follows. Sometimes blindly.
Having followed Rob Parker's work for a few months now I can see where his penchant for explosive storytelling comes from. He strives to create a universe which is detailed and relatable, whilst served with a healthy dollop of escapism and unapologetic fun. But at the same time, we are transported to the dark alleys of the human condition. Parker masterfully plays with the undercurrents of fear and morality. He presents us with an ensemble of ambiguous characters, who can be loved as much as loathed. This fluidity of their moral fabric spills across the pages and leaves the reader wanting more. The insatiable feeling makes the reader want to pace through the story, and the payoff is utterly satisfying.
Rob Parker's style is both lyrical and dry. He is a master wordsmith but can deliver the grittiness of noir with very little effort. The ideas presented in the book are not overly convoluted nor require suspension of disbelief. It's a joyful piece of an action-packed thriller, which is firmly planted in reality. Rob Parker's storytelling leaves very little room for bloated self-indulgence. It's a well-thoughtout, well-crafted novel that provides an impeccable introduction to a modern vigilante deeply rooted in the tradition of the '70s and '80s pop-culture. Yes, I'm looking at you Death Wish and Cobra.
On that note let's take a quick look at Ben Bracken. In reality, we know very little about him, which works really well. We know who he was, we got a very good idea of who he is now, and we clearly see what he's trying to achieve. We also know how he feels about his past, and it's obvious what are his plans for the future, but that's about it. There's a certain economy to Bracken, which adds to his mystique. Reading the book my mind wandered quite a bit to the storytelling tradition of the superhero genre, where we have that visceral conflict and duality of the protagonists' nature. On one hand, Ben Bracken is determined to serve justice but on the other, he yearns normality. This duality is everpresent throughout the novel and is one of the reasons why the book works so well.
If you are a fan of a well-written thriller, 'A Wanted Man' is compelling, masterfully crafted read you will devour over the weekend. Highly recommended.
Two wrongs do not make a right, but... What would you make your mission, if you could deliver the justice?
Rob Parker's debut, 'A Wanted Man' is a book of many layers. Although it's marketed as a thriller, it's a beautifully written noir filled to the brim with breathtaking action sequences, immaculate storytelling, and phenomenal character development.
The story introduces us to Ben Bracken, a former soldier, whose only desire is to fix the broken world of corruption and villainy. And this is the very cornerstone of every single action he takes. Bracken is flawed and broken, but his endgame is always dictated by the moral compass he follows. Sometimes blindly.
Having followed Rob Parker's work for a few months now I can see where his penchant for explosive storytelling comes from. He strives to create a universe which is detailed and relatable, whilst served with a healthy dollop of escapism and unapologetic fun. But at the same time, we are transported to the dark alleys of the human condition. Parker masterfully plays with the undercurrents of fear and morality. He presents us with an ensemble of ambiguous characters, who can be loved as much as loathed. This fluidity of their moral fabric spills across the pages and leaves the reader wanting more. The insatiable feeling makes the reader want to pace through the story, and the payoff is utterly satisfying.
Rob Parker's style is both lyrical and dry. He is a master wordsmith but can deliver the grittiness of noir with very little effort. The ideas presented in the book are not overly convoluted nor require suspension of disbelief. It's a joyful piece of an action-packed thriller, which is firmly planted in reality. Rob Parker's storytelling leaves very little room for bloated self-indulgence. It's a well-thoughtout, well-crafted novel that provides an impeccable introduction to a modern vigilante deeply rooted in the tradition of the '70s and '80s pop-culture. Yes, I'm looking at you Death Wish and Cobra.
On that note let's take a quick look at Ben Bracken. In reality, we know very little about him, which works really well. We know who he was, we got a very good idea of who he is now, and we clearly see what he's trying to achieve. We also know how he feels about his past, and it's obvious what are his plans for the future, but that's about it. There's a certain economy to Bracken, which adds to his mystique. Reading the book my mind wandered quite a bit to the storytelling tradition of the superhero genre, where we have that visceral conflict and duality of the protagonists' nature. On one hand, Ben Bracken is determined to serve justice but on the other, he yearns normality. This duality is everpresent throughout the novel and is one of the reasons why the book works so well.
If you are a fan of a well-written thriller, 'A Wanted Man' is compelling, masterfully crafted read you will devour over the weekend. Highly recommended.
January 16, 2025
If you're looking for literary fiction, this isn't it. If you're looking for some entertainment, though, the blurb suggests it has all the attributes. You know when you just fancy taking your brain out and watching an action movie with a beer and some unhealthy snacks? That's what the blurb was telling me I was going to get.
To be fair, it isn't that basic. But it is entertaining. A Wanted Man is designed to grab you by the scruff of the neck and pull you right to the edge of your seat. And, for me, that's entertainment.
There are some well-worn tropes (the loner, ex-military), but there are some interesting twists on these as well. The opening sequence involving a prison breakout pulls you in right away - although by the end of the novel, I still didn't really feel I knew the whole background to that. Which isn't a bad thing, especially as this is the first in a series. Let's face it, you do still want to have things to go back and find out about.
The storyline was fast-moving. There certainly weren't any moments when you felt the plot was treading water. Short chapters and plenty of cliffhangers helped to pull you along. And, when it came, the action was cinematic (of course this would transfer well to the screen - big or small!).
When it comes to thrillers, one of the techniques that works really well in keeping the pace up is the ability to switch from one point of view to another. That's easy to do when it's written in the third person. It's more of a challenge when the story is told in the first person, and Rob Parker has risen to that challenge.
For thrilling entertainment, I can thoroughly recommend A Wanted Man.
To be fair, it isn't that basic. But it is entertaining. A Wanted Man is designed to grab you by the scruff of the neck and pull you right to the edge of your seat. And, for me, that's entertainment.
There are some well-worn tropes (the loner, ex-military), but there are some interesting twists on these as well. The opening sequence involving a prison breakout pulls you in right away - although by the end of the novel, I still didn't really feel I knew the whole background to that. Which isn't a bad thing, especially as this is the first in a series. Let's face it, you do still want to have things to go back and find out about.
The storyline was fast-moving. There certainly weren't any moments when you felt the plot was treading water. Short chapters and plenty of cliffhangers helped to pull you along. And, when it came, the action was cinematic (of course this would transfer well to the screen - big or small!).
When it comes to thrillers, one of the techniques that works really well in keeping the pace up is the ability to switch from one point of view to another. That's easy to do when it's written in the third person. It's more of a challenge when the story is told in the first person, and Rob Parker has risen to that challenge.
For thrilling entertainment, I can thoroughly recommend A Wanted Man.
September 6, 2017
I was provided with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ben acts at a moment of extreme inner self-conflict, to only find that the repercussions of his action, what he considered as something he did to save the pain and soul of a fellow army man, only earns him bad reputation and the loss of everything that he had lived for. Determined to avenge what's been done to him, he sets out, seeking his rival. His close friend and confidante Jack finds himself in middle of a turmoil, losing his father in a brutal murder. Ben puts aside his venture plans to get Jack's back, and the events put him in the thick of the dark underworld of one of busiest cities in the world. Does evil win, as it finds itself at the receiving end of Ben's wrath, or does Ben fall prey to evil, is what the story is about.
I loved the book from cover to cover. Getting off to a slow start, the book makes up for more than enough of the lost momentum. The narrative is super pacy once you get across the initial part. In fact, you'd find it quite hard to put the book down. It was refreshing to find that the author had not depicted Ben to be a super hero. I loved Ben's characterization portrayed with all his faults and human inadequacies.
If fast-paced action adventures, with streaks of mystery is your genre, then this book is for you.
Ben acts at a moment of extreme inner self-conflict, to only find that the repercussions of his action, what he considered as something he did to save the pain and soul of a fellow army man, only earns him bad reputation and the loss of everything that he had lived for. Determined to avenge what's been done to him, he sets out, seeking his rival. His close friend and confidante Jack finds himself in middle of a turmoil, losing his father in a brutal murder. Ben puts aside his venture plans to get Jack's back, and the events put him in the thick of the dark underworld of one of busiest cities in the world. Does evil win, as it finds itself at the receiving end of Ben's wrath, or does Ben fall prey to evil, is what the story is about.
I loved the book from cover to cover. Getting off to a slow start, the book makes up for more than enough of the lost momentum. The narrative is super pacy once you get across the initial part. In fact, you'd find it quite hard to put the book down. It was refreshing to find that the author had not depicted Ben to be a super hero. I loved Ben's characterization portrayed with all his faults and human inadequacies.
If fast-paced action adventures, with streaks of mystery is your genre, then this book is for you.
August 15, 2017
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from Pump Up Your Book in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
A Wanted Man by Robert Parker was a good book. I had to remind myself that this book takes place in Britain, so some of the words seemed to be spelled wrong, but they are spelled right. I also enjoyed that this book takes place in Britain because it is a nice change from all the books I read that take place in America. It was such a nice change from what I usually read and really enjoyed that. I really liked the characters in this book, and I think it moved at a great pace. I was kept wondering what was going to happen next during the entire book. I always love books like this because it makes reading them so faster. He gives you the information you need to understand the book, but he doesn’t give you so many details that you get lost in them. If you are looking for a new mystery author, I would for sure recommend this author to you because I really did enjoy this book.
A Wanted Man by Robert Parker was a good book. I had to remind myself that this book takes place in Britain, so some of the words seemed to be spelled wrong, but they are spelled right. I also enjoyed that this book takes place in Britain because it is a nice change from all the books I read that take place in America. It was such a nice change from what I usually read and really enjoyed that. I really liked the characters in this book, and I think it moved at a great pace. I was kept wondering what was going to happen next during the entire book. I always love books like this because it makes reading them so faster. He gives you the information you need to understand the book, but he doesn’t give you so many details that you get lost in them. If you are looking for a new mystery author, I would for sure recommend this author to you because I really did enjoy this book.
November 2, 2017
Truth be told, this book was a bit jumbled at first. We jump right into Ben's life and there's very little explanation. I would have preferred a little introduction but we do get a bit of history and context as the book progresses. Needless to say, there is some graphic violence discussed, so be wary of that.
By the middle of the book I was really enjoying it. I did figure out one of the plot twists pretty early on, but that didn't particularly deter from the story. There was, in my humble opinion, a bit too much discussion of the various settings Ben encounters. While I do enjoy knowing the world the characters are experiencing (especially since I've never been there), there was just a lot of unnecessary inclusions that made the story drag a bit at times.
However, I really enjoyed Ben as a character and the ending was an interesting outcome. Ben is a vigilante and lives by his own set of rules, which aren't clear at the beginning of the story. I found myself waiting to see what his next move might be, and I was consistently surprised. I'm definitely interested to read his next adventure.
By the middle of the book I was really enjoying it. I did figure out one of the plot twists pretty early on, but that didn't particularly deter from the story. There was, in my humble opinion, a bit too much discussion of the various settings Ben encounters. While I do enjoy knowing the world the characters are experiencing (especially since I've never been there), there was just a lot of unnecessary inclusions that made the story drag a bit at times.
However, I really enjoyed Ben as a character and the ending was an interesting outcome. Ben is a vigilante and lives by his own set of rules, which aren't clear at the beginning of the story. I found myself waiting to see what his next move might be, and I was consistently surprised. I'm definitely interested to read his next adventure.
May 29, 2020
This is the first of Robert Parker’s books I have read, and the first Ben Bracken. A brilliant read, great characters.
Ben Bracken was in the army, his family were proud of him, he had worked his way up to Captain, then made a mistake and everything came crashing round his ears. Stripped of his rank and place in the army. His family disowned him.
Then he was caught in a set up for murder and ended up in prison. But now he is out, he has escaped from strange ways and wants to bring down the man that sent him there. But first his friend Jack wants help to get the man who killed his father. Little did Ben know that Jack’s father was involved with gangsters, but as the story moves on he is determined to rid the country of these evil people, as well as helping Jack get his dads killer. Not everything goes as planned. But there is plenty of action and adventure to keep readers engaged.
Ben Bracken is a man on a mission. Despite being a convict on the run, I like his character. Look forward to reading more.
Ben Bracken was in the army, his family were proud of him, he had worked his way up to Captain, then made a mistake and everything came crashing round his ears. Stripped of his rank and place in the army. His family disowned him.
Then he was caught in a set up for murder and ended up in prison. But now he is out, he has escaped from strange ways and wants to bring down the man that sent him there. But first his friend Jack wants help to get the man who killed his father. Little did Ben know that Jack’s father was involved with gangsters, but as the story moves on he is determined to rid the country of these evil people, as well as helping Jack get his dads killer. Not everything goes as planned. But there is plenty of action and adventure to keep readers engaged.
Ben Bracken is a man on a mission. Despite being a convict on the run, I like his character. Look forward to reading more.
October 30, 2022
This book has been sitting on my kindle for ages, so with a bit of a lull in ARC's needing to be reviewed, I was having a scroll through and thought I would get stuck in! I am a massive fan of this authors later work, so was excited to go back to the beginning.
We meet ex-soldier Ben Bracken as he is escaping from Strangeways prison on a mission to get revenge on the man that put him there. He doesn't have many friends, but reaches out to what few contacts he has and sets about finding, and punishing, his nemesis.
This was a gritty, fast-paced story and the Manchester setting was particular vivid (not the organised crime parts!) having lived their all my life and it made the scenes very realistic for me. Ben was a character that grew on me as the book went on and I liked how that story closed, but still left it open for further books (which I know there are!) And I am really looking forward to finding out what Ben gets up to next.
We meet ex-soldier Ben Bracken as he is escaping from Strangeways prison on a mission to get revenge on the man that put him there. He doesn't have many friends, but reaches out to what few contacts he has and sets about finding, and punishing, his nemesis.
This was a gritty, fast-paced story and the Manchester setting was particular vivid (not the organised crime parts!) having lived their all my life and it made the scenes very realistic for me. Ben was a character that grew on me as the book went on and I liked how that story closed, but still left it open for further books (which I know there are!) And I am really looking forward to finding out what Ben gets up to next.
June 8, 2019
Life seems to have thrown everything and the kitchen sink at Ben Bracken, who has really only ever wanted to do the right and honourable thing. Dishonourably discharged from the army for delivering a coup de grâce to a fellow soldier dying a slow and horrible death and imprisoned for murder after being set up by a crime lord, the now vigilante is out of prison and set on revenge. Unfortunately though, for all his efforts, undeserving people still end up suffering cruel fates.
It's a great crime thriller that had me intrigued at times, turning up the action at key points, while keeping the reader hooked with more subtle windings at other points. It builds to an exciting dénouement and leaves me wanting more.
It's a great crime thriller that had me intrigued at times, turning up the action at key points, while keeping the reader hooked with more subtle windings at other points. It builds to an exciting dénouement and leaves me wanting more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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