Death and Betrayal

Sabel Security #8

by Seeley James

Have you ever been betrayed by your government, your best friend, and your fiancé—all at the same time?

Jacob is about to propose to his girl when he discovers the next generation of weapons are being shipped to our enemies. Factions in the government ask him to find the perpetrators while others work to make sure he fails. His intended fiancé does not understand his disappearance and he can’t give an explanation. Can he lose the woman he loves to save the nation?

When Jacob sets out to expose the billionaire intending to auction off national secrets, he is fired, expelled, and hunted by the government that once awarded him medals. If he ever wants to return to his homeland, he must insert himself into the dangerous world of technology smugglers. It’s a place where only the aggressive and ruthless survive. In the cutthroat world of modern-day pirates, every breath he takes may be his last.

As the bad guys close in and those who could deny him aid, he confronts a terrible choice: to complete his mission or take millions in cash and run. The former is a death sentence and the latter is a lonely future. He must ask himself, can he outsmart the most corrupt billionaires in history before democracy is destroyed?

416 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 18, 2020

About the author

On a rainy day when I was ten, I was transported to eighteenth century England where I met Captain Billy Bones, heard the tapping of Blind Pew’s cane, and witnessed the treachery of Long John Silver. When I closed the cover of Treasure Island, I thought to myself: When I make stuff up, I get in trouble. I need to become a writer.

Which was the career I planned on pursuing. Planned on …

At 17, I was homeless, wandering from one minimum wage job to another. At 19, I found purpose in life when I adopted a 3-year-old girl and raised her (she’s 51 now and lives across town). Children need a lot of things that cost money, so I shelved the writing idea and pursued a career in technology, selling products and services to Fortune 500 company executives.

Along the way, I met and married the love of my life. We added two children (now grown and living in LA and NYC) and carved out a life. When I’d made all the gold I could eat, I returned my focus to the career I’d always wanted: writing adventures filled with thrills and mysteries.

My beloved wife passed unexpectedly in early 2024. Now, I spend my time talking to my imaginary friends and hiking a small mountain in my hometown of Scottsdale, Arizona. I hope you enjoy the Sabel Security Series, and the characters of Jacob Stearne and Pia Sabel. As of this writing, there are sixteen novels completed and two more in my head. I plan to keep writing them until my mortal ink dries up.

To buy books from my writer-direct site, visit seeleyjames . com

Contact Seeley James:
Email: Seeley@seeleyjames.com
Facebook: SeeleyJamesAuth
Twitter: @SeeleyJamesAuth

Seeley is a proud member of the Alliance of Independent Authors.

Reviews

["Avonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

DEATH AND BETRAYAL (A Jacob Stearne Thriller; Sabel Security Book #8) by Seeley James is another great addition to this thriller series. I always find these books to be so entertaining. I start a book in the series and get immersed in Pia and Jacob’s world immediately.

Jacob and the winged god Mercury are once again at the center of a fast-paced, action packed plot full of bad billionaires, arms dealers and a weapon that could destroy the balance of power in a country.

This time though, Jacob is without Pia and Sabel Securities. He is fired without knowledge of just what he did wrong and thrown into a dangerous world of a billionaire auctioning off a new technological weapon. To survive, he becomes a modern-day pirate and becomes as ruthless as the bad guys.

Jacob has decisions to make that will change his entire life and future.

I love all of these characters, especially Jacob. Jacob has so much to deal with physically, mentally and emotionally in this addition to the series and I could not stop reading until the end. The plots of all the books in this series are fast-paced and entertaining and this one was no exception. Mr. James writes plot twists and turns that keep me riveted throughout.

I highly recommend this thriller and all of the books in this series!

[Martin Pingree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pia, Jacob and Mercury are at it again. A top notch thriller for sure. Betrayed by his boss, Jacob becomes hunted man across the globe. As usual there are plenty of bodies and plenty of intrigue and action to keep you riveted to your sear. An awesome cast of characters, myriad of twists/turns and a very well written story line will keep you wanting more !

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Story

Seeley James has written another wonderful story with strong and believable characters. When the government, Pia and his girlfriend dessert him, Jacob wonders who can he trust. Arms dealer trying to get hold of the latest weapon to sell to the highest bidder. Can Jacob stop this from happening? I enjoyed reading this book. Can't wait to read the next one.

[Jim Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

A top notch thriller with an excellent storyline and a great cast of characters. Contains plenty of action, lots of suspense, and several twists and turns. A very enjoyable read that was hard to put down. This is a highly recommended book by an excellent author.

[Bruce Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story with lots of action, thrills, and great character development.
Highly recommended!
I received the book free in exchange for an honest review.

[CCAM&GZM · Rating 5 out of 5]

The blurb summarises the plot well enough. But what the reader cannot fully realise is the intensity and speed on which everything happens. Irrespective of where the action takes place: on the sea, in meetings or hospital rooms, on dark streets or a forsaken church... there is no still moment, not lost time, no breaks, no useless information. The clues are all there, everything that's happening is linked and there is no deus ex machina.

And speaking about god...s, I have to say that I met Jacob Stearne only in this eighth volume so I'm still curious about his "relationship" with Mercury who not only helps JS and guides his moral compass but also, in a personal way, whispers him "Respice te, hominem te memento". I liked how the author uses Mercury without adding to the impossibility of the story.

Thriller aspects are paired with the funny ones, trust with betrayal, heroism with mercantilism, despair with hope, secrets with security and intelligence (or lack of them) all being the needlepoints in a very attractive embroidery on the tapestry of what Jacob Stearne' life became. The colors of this tapestry form a wide palette of grays, keeping the white as the final personal finis, even when the dark side seems more alluring.

Even if it is a thriller - mystery - pure action book, the author's language is not stripped of color, variety, and appeal. Also, between the lines or just embedded into the story, the author makes some good appreciations about the social statutes and their differences.

Seeley James, you might say that you have struggled at times, but I didn't need to resort to my perseverance. Your story is great and kept me in the middle of everything. I could imagine every step, any thought, any disappoint or Jacob's fear, but also his power, his determination, and his heart. Now, I have to read the rest of the volumes and to adhere to your secret society... do we have a secret handshake?

The rest of you, boys and girls, it does not matter if you do not usually read this kind of book, you'll love Jacob and his friends... and enemies... Enjoy!

https://mythicalbooks.blogspot.com/20...

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This action packed novel is full of twists and turns and surprises. Stearne is out to save the world again but this time in the most convoluted way. His being fired by Pia seemed a set up job to me and I was surprised Stearne didn't think the same. His feelings of betrayal add a dark element to the plot. We are taken into the dark world of arms sales, to exotic locations and luxurious yachts and self absorbed billionaires.

James' writing style often left me a little confused, especially with dialogue. I frequently had to reread sections to make sure I understood the verbal exchanges.

This is a novel for readers who like plenty of action set in the context of keeping the bad guys from getting sophisticated weapons. The plot includes lots of mayhem, plenty of dead bodies and a great deal of complex strategy by Stearne to outsmart the bad guys.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Mike Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Return of Jacob and Mercury is fantastic! Looking for a straight up thriller...this isn’t for you. Gods, mental illness, or a combination of these lead to a great story with twists and turns throughout. You kind of know the ending but are never sure that James isn’t ready to say goodbye to the series. Entertaining throughout and is sure to keep your attention.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author at my request and this is my honest opinion. Once more my favorite Roman god, Mercury and his side-kick Jacob Sterne have gotten themselves into an almost bigger mess than Mercury, with all his talents can get them out of. This story starts off with a bang, grabs hold of your throat and doesn't let go until you turn the last page. There are more shoot 'em ups, explosions, betrayals (hence the title), fancy gadgets, spies, evil villains, and their henchmen than you can shake three sticks at. Mr. James just keeps putting out better and better novels. His characters are so multi-faceted, and "real" you almost expect them to walk off the page. And expect more twists and turns than you can count. But there is one thing that this novel has that all the previous Seeley James' books didn't have (or at least not that I noticed); this one had more of an emotional component for Jacob. The reader has seen Jacob hurt physically on his adventures, and emotionally by some of the women in his life, but this time it seemed the hits just kept on coming. Mr. James reveals a deeper side of Jacob than I remember seeing before and even though it was painful to a certain extent, it was enlightening. It says a lot for an author's abilities when he can make the reader "see" his character and feel like they are someone we actually know. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. If you haven't read them. you are missing out.

[Ruth Hill · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

First of all, this book is not a clean, family-friendly book. Not that I would Mark the book down because of that, but i just want to point out the potential offensive issues in the book. I don't recall any bedroom scenes, but there is profanity sprinkled throughout the book. It is also notable to point out the "supernatural" element. The Greek god, Mercury, is a guide to the protagonist throughout the book, and that may be offensive to those who do not appreciate these types of inclusion.

This was the first book I read in this series, and because it is number eight in the series, it can be assumed this is not the ideal situation. I was a bit lost until I did some research on this series. I applaud the author for including plenty of quality action and thriller elements and for attempting to bring new readers up to speed on this series. I cannot complain at all about the level of writing and the quality of this thriller narrative.

I chose to rate this book a 3.5 for the following reasons. I realize that I am coming into this series late, but the whole Mercury portion just never seemed to work. I am not offended by supernatural elements in stories, but I just found this part a bit contrived at times. Maybe I needed to understand the origin of this partnership, but a description by the author may have aided in my comprehension.

I found the thriller an overall high-velocity story, but I did not feel a lot of characterization was included concerning these characters. I realize I'm not the intended audience since this is my first book in the series, but I would have loved for the author to hook and reel me in to check out the other books in the series. Maybe I missed that, but I'm not in a hurry to read the other books in the series.

Notwithstanding, if you have an adoration and appreciation for thrillers, this may the perfect boom and series for you. It has an extensive variety of twists and turns that sill always keep the reader guessing.

[Pierrebleu · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping story about a weapon that is AI on steroids.

The weapon can be used to basically control whoever you want wherever you need it.
Obviously it’s about to fall into the wrong hands and by a complicated storyline Jacob Stearne and his god Mercury are on their own to stop this happening.
Mercury is Jacobs advisor, his conscience, his irritating cretin inside his head - or is it real and not just in his head. Nonetheless it is almost ever present, I said almost as it can go missing on occasion. Personally I don’t like Mercury and find his presence irritating and boring so I tend to skip through his monologues.

The story though is great and unlike Jacob I can ignore Mercury and still enjoy the story. Pia is involved in the early stage of the story but she make a big public display of ditching Jacob in the most embarrassing way, turning tail and leaving him in the middle of a major function, whilst also sacking him from employment with Sable. Jacob believes he wants to be an arms dealer, after all why shouldn’t he be a rich influential businessman instead of a mere employee.

He has to establish the identity of Ra in order to get into the fold of potential buyers for the weapon system called Alvaria. Ra is a real nasty piece of work who has his henchman Bonham and his dogs of war to do all his dirty work although he does like to have partner he works “with” faun all over him and do dastardly deeds like kill somebody in front of his very eyes whilst he videos it. Jacob is not let off this process as Ra uses it as his yardstick as to whether or not he can trust a partner.

There are numerous test moments for Jacob and it’s interesting to see how or if he would do Ra’s bidding.
Needless to say Jacob has his own agenda whilst all the time seething that Pia ditched him so unceremoniously. Two of Jacob’s ex-girlfriends turn up, one as the girlfriend of Ra and the other to undertake a task of getting hold of Avaria.

Good tension and thoughts of betrayal throughout the story. Well worth reading to find out exactly how things transpire.

[Michael Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as ARC A very enjoyable read, as I have found all the Sabel Security books. Suddenly, Jacob is tossed to the wolves. Out of nowhere, Pia Sabel goes off on Jacob in public and fires him. Now, everybody is against him. How will Jacob and Mercury pull this off? The twists and turns will keep you from putting the book down

[Manfred · Rating 5 out of 5]

A difficult adventure for Jacob and his roman god, Mercury. A powerful american weapon goes missing and on his search for it Jacob gets betrayed by everybody he holds dear. A very plausible story too considering US politics these days. You simply need your personal god to stay sane.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best one yet! Utterly different from the other books, and yet, utterly amazing. Jacob, Pia, & Mercury are at their best (& worst) and the plot never lets you stop to rest. Definitely not a series that is falling into a rut! Loved it!!

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best Jacob Stearne story, yet. Some things the same, but some things to be discovered. You won't find any spoilers here. Just know I loved it. Highly recommended.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

Can't wait for the next book, what a ride that was . That was pulled off really well. Pia and the gang are so good . May the Gods be with you.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this author

Hated to see it end Pia Jacob Jenny and the rest of the cast you just want it to go on and on

[Frani Zumwalt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book. Love your characters. They really keep you on the edge of your seat.

[Karen Kearns · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished reading Death and Betrayal this past Wednesday.   This book, unlike any of the previous books, which I very thoroughly enjoyed, took me several weeks to get through only because of the way Seeley James has taken what I feel is a rather chauvinistic direction with the Sabel Security series.  He began this series with a fresh outlook for his then primary character in the person of Pia Sabel, who came off as a very strong, very competent, kick ass/ask questions later female version of Steven Seagal.  She was incredible, mostly because she was penned by a male author.  He has now placed her back in the chauvinistic role of being a subordinate, background character, and  placed her in a role that I feel her character doesn’t want and actually even hates.  
Therefore, unlike at the end of previous books by Seeley James, I am feeling that I am not at all excitedly awaiting the next adventure.  Jacob Stearne and Mercury made an excellent form of comic relief to give his readers a space to bring down the adrenaline a bit, but as the main characters, they have taken his series back into a basic sugar cookie recipe for adventure/thriller books, but perhaps with a heavy hand of adding cloves to the cookies. 

[Bill Koller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a re-read.