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His daughter was taken. He’ll never get her back.
Set in the near future, Matt Deal is a British businessman married into a wealthy Florida family.
Mercy, his fifteen-year-old daughter, is the glue in his rocky marriage to Lorey. His life is changed forever after Mercy is brutally sexually assaulted on a Destin beach leaving her in a persistent vegetative state.
Trusting the local detectives to bring the rapists to justice, mixed martial arts expert Deal concentrates in vain on his Florida gym business, only to have his world further explode on learning the men responsible for his daughter’s injuries may escape justice. Deal is isolated and at his wit's end after his rich father-in-law sends death threats blaming him for all these ills.
Who can he turn to? Where can he go? What will he do? Who can he trust?
Will he return to a post-Brexit Britain or ultimately will he seek revenge?
Fans of Jack Reacher, Barry Eisler, and any vigilante justice novel will love this book.
*** Trigger Warning ***
Contains a scene of sexual violence and some scenes of explicit consensual adult sex.
Set in the near future, Matt Deal is a British businessman married into a wealthy Florida family.
Mercy, his fifteen-year-old daughter, is the glue in his rocky marriage to Lorey. His life is changed forever after Mercy is brutally sexually assaulted on a Destin beach leaving her in a persistent vegetative state.
Trusting the local detectives to bring the rapists to justice, mixed martial arts expert Deal concentrates in vain on his Florida gym business, only to have his world further explode on learning the men responsible for his daughter’s injuries may escape justice. Deal is isolated and at his wit's end after his rich father-in-law sends death threats blaming him for all these ills.
Who can he turn to? Where can he go? What will he do? Who can he trust?
Will he return to a post-Brexit Britain or ultimately will he seek revenge?
Fans of Jack Reacher, Barry Eisler, and any vigilante justice novel will love this book.
*** Trigger Warning ***
Contains a scene of sexual violence and some scenes of explicit consensual adult sex.
- GenresFiction
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2019
75 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Bentley
54 books269 followersStephen Bentley is an award-winning author. Of his Operation Julie true crime book, screenwriter and novelist, writer of 'Julie' BBC Drama, Rob Gittins, said, "The fascinating and extraordinary inside story from the man who was actually there.”
Of his later fiction works, British crime author, Pat MacDonald said, “I knew when I read the author’s first book although non-fiction that he could make the transition to writing fiction; I was right. He has an ease of language that lends itself to storytelling; he tells it as if he was there in the plot and why shouldn’t he having been an undercover cop in the real world? Not that Steve Regan is meant to be him, but having the experience means he can do whatever he wants with his fictional characters, and they will always be believable.”
Like some other authors, his life experience is broad and unconventional. He spent 30 years in the legal system, first as a detective for 15 years then as barrister plying his trade as “a wig for hire” in London and the English provinces. He was a pioneering undercover cop on Operation Julie and as a barrister defended in trials involving murder, rape, drug importation, other serious crimes and defended soldiers at courts-martial.
He worked in a warehouse. Rode a big motorbike as a London courier. He drove big articulated trucks and taught how to drive them. He also worked as a hospital porter twice. He drove chilled delivery vans in London in the 1990s to fund his law degree and bar school studies. He spent the last two years of his working life driving plant and operating heavy filtration machinery for Europe’s largest water company. His work mates soon recognised his advocacy skills and elected him as their shop steward.
He has now written over twenty books. Two of them have been optioned and in development; one as a TV drama series, and one as a drama doc.
You can find Stephen at stephenbentley.info
His wife is a better person than him in all regards and is a source of support in his goal of entertaining readers. She has also made him a better person.
Stephen Bentley's book recommendations
Of his later fiction works, British crime author, Pat MacDonald said, “I knew when I read the author’s first book although non-fiction that he could make the transition to writing fiction; I was right. He has an ease of language that lends itself to storytelling; he tells it as if he was there in the plot and why shouldn’t he having been an undercover cop in the real world? Not that Steve Regan is meant to be him, but having the experience means he can do whatever he wants with his fictional characters, and they will always be believable.”
Like some other authors, his life experience is broad and unconventional. He spent 30 years in the legal system, first as a detective for 15 years then as barrister plying his trade as “a wig for hire” in London and the English provinces. He was a pioneering undercover cop on Operation Julie and as a barrister defended in trials involving murder, rape, drug importation, other serious crimes and defended soldiers at courts-martial.
He worked in a warehouse. Rode a big motorbike as a London courier. He drove big articulated trucks and taught how to drive them. He also worked as a hospital porter twice. He drove chilled delivery vans in London in the 1990s to fund his law degree and bar school studies. He spent the last two years of his working life driving plant and operating heavy filtration machinery for Europe’s largest water company. His work mates soon recognised his advocacy skills and elected him as their shop steward.
He has now written over twenty books. Two of them have been optioned and in development; one as a TV drama series, and one as a drama doc.
You can find Stephen at stephenbentley.info
His wife is a better person than him in all regards and is a source of support in his goal of entertaining readers. She has also made him a better person.
Stephen Bentley's book recommendations
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
January 14, 2020
This book caught my eye as the description mentioned it would cater to Lee Child’s Jack Reacher fans (I am one), and the summary made me think of Deathwish (movies I have a soft spot for).
In a near post-Brexit future, Matt Deal is the owner of a Muay Thai boxing studio and gym. His marriage is on the rocks due to the alcoholism of his wife, and his life gets upended the day his 15 years old daughter is assaulted and raped, left comatose. Her aggressors get released on a technicality, and Deal, now divorced, moves back to what’s left of the UK to join the police force.
The book is fast paced and the action is well written. Unfortunately, those are, to me, its only qualities.
The first part of the book reads more like a novel from Warren Murphy and Richard Sapir’s The Destroyer series, minus the satire and cynicism of Remo Williams’ adventures. The writing is pumped full of testosterone, which makes it even more surprising when Matt Deal, for example, suddenly gets tear-eyed, out of character.
While the detective roams the UK, the book isn’t helped by the sheer number (I stopped counting) of gratuitous and often unexpected sex scenes which do nothing to advance the plot, nor to flesh out the characters.
The characters reactions, actions and dialogue often make little sense. At some points, the maiming or death of relatives seem to have little impact. Asocial characters suddenly become trusty of near strangers. At least one plot point is introduced, and then abandoned. All pretense of sound police work is forgotten to favor actions scenes leaving a trail of bodies (but the main character worries about Internal Affairs investigations in clear cut self defense cases). All this feels pretty incoherent.
The second part of the book gets to the revenge arc for Matt Deal against those who wronged him and his daughter. I was hoping the book would redeem itself at this point. However, it is also quite lacking in this aspect. No one man army, here. A final explosive confrontation is indeed set up, but the payoff isn’t there, mainly because of the use of a Deus Ex Machina in the form of an improbable coincidence.
The book ends without epilogue, on a cliffhanger I didn’t care much for, as the author didn’t manage to build characters I would really care about. Matt Deal is no Jack Reacher.
Thanks to Hendry Publishing, BooksGoSocial, and Netgalley for the review copy of this book in exchange for this unbiased review. I really wanted to like it.
In a near post-Brexit future, Matt Deal is the owner of a Muay Thai boxing studio and gym. His marriage is on the rocks due to the alcoholism of his wife, and his life gets upended the day his 15 years old daughter is assaulted and raped, left comatose. Her aggressors get released on a technicality, and Deal, now divorced, moves back to what’s left of the UK to join the police force.
The book is fast paced and the action is well written. Unfortunately, those are, to me, its only qualities.
The first part of the book reads more like a novel from Warren Murphy and Richard Sapir’s The Destroyer series, minus the satire and cynicism of Remo Williams’ adventures. The writing is pumped full of testosterone, which makes it even more surprising when Matt Deal, for example, suddenly gets tear-eyed, out of character.
While the detective roams the UK, the book isn’t helped by the sheer number (I stopped counting) of gratuitous and often unexpected sex scenes which do nothing to advance the plot, nor to flesh out the characters.
The characters reactions, actions and dialogue often make little sense. At some points, the maiming or death of relatives seem to have little impact. Asocial characters suddenly become trusty of near strangers. At least one plot point is introduced, and then abandoned. All pretense of sound police work is forgotten to favor actions scenes leaving a trail of bodies (but the main character worries about Internal Affairs investigations in clear cut self defense cases). All this feels pretty incoherent.
The second part of the book gets to the revenge arc for Matt Deal against those who wronged him and his daughter. I was hoping the book would redeem itself at this point. However, it is also quite lacking in this aspect. No one man army, here. A final explosive confrontation is indeed set up, but the payoff isn’t there, mainly because of the use of a Deus Ex Machina in the form of an improbable coincidence.
The book ends without epilogue, on a cliffhanger I didn’t care much for, as the author didn’t manage to build characters I would really care about. Matt Deal is no Jack Reacher.
Thanks to Hendry Publishing, BooksGoSocial, and Netgalley for the review copy of this book in exchange for this unbiased review. I really wanted to like it.
October 1, 2020
A Fast paced thriller.
I recommend this book to those who like good stories about bad people. Matt Deal becomes a policeman in the UK after his daughter is raped and left in a brain injured vegetative state. The people responsible get off Scott free which is why Matt moves to England from the US. But he gets into trouble after defending himself in a life and death struggle with a criminal. Matt sneaks back into the U.S. and vows revenge. His lady friend, Wolfie, joins him and the cat and mouse game begins between Matt and the bad guys. A good detailed story. An enjoyable read.
I recommend this book to those who like good stories about bad people. Matt Deal becomes a policeman in the UK after his daughter is raped and left in a brain injured vegetative state. The people responsible get off Scott free which is why Matt moves to England from the US. But he gets into trouble after defending himself in a life and death struggle with a criminal. Matt sneaks back into the U.S. and vows revenge. His lady friend, Wolfie, joins him and the cat and mouse game begins between Matt and the bad guys. A good detailed story. An enjoyable read.
November 3, 2020
The opening scene is gruesome and very descriptive but relevant to the whole story and its character building and the very purpose of Matt Deal and his justice that he needs to serve!
Matt Deal just doesnt seem to catch a break whether it be his wife and his overbearing father in law who blames him for everything that has happened. But the truth will be revealed and Matt Deal will seek bloody revenge on all who has done himself and his daughter wrong. They say revenge is a dish best served cold......but for Matt Deal it is a dish best served with justice. Anyway he can get it!
Great book written well. Intense and an emotional rollercoaster. Read it in one sitting and i think that says enough about how i view this book. Big fat 5 stars 😀.
Matt Deal just doesnt seem to catch a break whether it be his wife and his overbearing father in law who blames him for everything that has happened. But the truth will be revealed and Matt Deal will seek bloody revenge on all who has done himself and his daughter wrong. They say revenge is a dish best served cold......but for Matt Deal it is a dish best served with justice. Anyway he can get it!
Great book written well. Intense and an emotional rollercoaster. Read it in one sitting and i think that says enough about how i view this book. Big fat 5 stars 😀.
December 3, 2019
Romance and Suspense
This story is about correcting an injustice. Matt and Anna are great characters in this story. The author did a great job fleshing out the suspense. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
This story is about correcting an injustice. Matt and Anna are great characters in this story. The author did a great job fleshing out the suspense. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
November 17, 2020
Revenge thriller!
Great start to a new series. I'm hoping the UK post brexit is complete fiction and not a prediction - dollars and guns, never!
Matt Deal is quite a character that has lots to deal with starting with a heinous crime against his daughter that changes his outlook on life. He zips over to his native U.K. but after a spot of bother, he secretly returns to the U.S. and faces up to the reasons he left. Will he confront the ones responsible or will it haunt him forever?
Looking forward to the next adventure with Matt Deal.
Great start to a new series. I'm hoping the UK post brexit is complete fiction and not a prediction - dollars and guns, never!
Matt Deal is quite a character that has lots to deal with starting with a heinous crime against his daughter that changes his outlook on life. He zips over to his native U.K. but after a spot of bother, he secretly returns to the U.S. and faces up to the reasons he left. Will he confront the ones responsible or will it haunt him forever?
Looking forward to the next adventure with Matt Deal.
October 20, 2020
Loved this story, not too sure about UK in the future though, let’s hope it is just fiction 😁 I couldn’t put it down action from start to finish. Now to read Mayhem to continue The story.
October 22, 2020
What a way to introduce a new series of books. This graphic, but well written book is fast pace and keeps the reader wondering what will happen next to Matt and Anna. A real thrill!!
April 2, 2021
Not for the easily offended because the violence and sex are quite graphic. True to life, one can
only imagine what pain a parent must endure to know how brutally their child was treated. A strong
protagonist, a lush for a wife, a controlling father-in-law and, finally, a good friend willing to help,
make this first in a new series a must read. It's all here and waiting for you to enjoy.
Highly Recommended.
only imagine what pain a parent must endure to know how brutally their child was treated. A strong
protagonist, a lush for a wife, a controlling father-in-law and, finally, a good friend willing to help,
make this first in a new series a must read. It's all here and waiting for you to enjoy.
Highly Recommended.
January 1, 2020
Mercy is based on the life of Matt Deal. He's stuck in a very unhappy marriage to Lorey, the daughter of a rich real estate magnate, Jack Hughes. His daughter, Mercy, is the only light in his dark life. However, one night, Mercy is brutally raped and left for dead. He is already having trouble dealing with that when he finds out the assailants may be freed because the evidence linking them to the crime has mysteriously disappeared. His father-in-law threatens to make his disappear, blaming him for Mercy's assault. He returns to his homeland of Britain, now reeling from the aftereffects of Brexit. But even there, Matt is determined to bring his daughter's attackers to justice.
The writing in this story was poor. The plot had great promise but because of the writing, I could not get into it at all. The dialogue was stilted and forced, which gave the entire story an unnatural feel.
The women in this story were unbelievable and made to look like bimbos. I don't know how it works but I am pretty sure a porn star should not be grabbing a detective's crotch while being interrogated.
I was not impressed with this book at all. If written better, the plot would have done quite well.
Violence: Quite a few violent scenes. The sexual assault was quite brutal and this will most likely be a trigger.
Sexual Content: Besides the sexual assault, there were a lot of sex scenes with very graphic descriptions.
Profanity: Many instances
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: All of the above with some underage drinking as well.
The writing in this story was poor. The plot had great promise but because of the writing, I could not get into it at all. The dialogue was stilted and forced, which gave the entire story an unnatural feel.
The women in this story were unbelievable and made to look like bimbos. I don't know how it works but I am pretty sure a porn star should not be grabbing a detective's crotch while being interrogated.
I was not impressed with this book at all. If written better, the plot would have done quite well.
Violence: Quite a few violent scenes. The sexual assault was quite brutal and this will most likely be a trigger.
Sexual Content: Besides the sexual assault, there were a lot of sex scenes with very graphic descriptions.
Profanity: Many instances
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: All of the above with some underage drinking as well.
November 9, 2019
As always Stephen Bentley takes you to the edge with a great story and lots of twists and turns.
Matt Deal, the main character is a what I would call a bad ass good guy. He and his lady, Wolfie/Anna get themselves tangled into a difficult and scary situation in order to avenge his daughter, Mercy. How they go about it will definitely leave you up late at night turning pages.
Because I know his books are absolute must reads I scanned pass the explicit sexual scenes to find out what happens. Normally that is a stop point for me. As an American reader I tend to be a little more prudish than those of other countries, it's just my personal thing. As anticipated, the overall storyline was well worth it.
The only problem now is waiting for book two!
I received an advanced copy of the book but the opinions are my own.
Matt Deal, the main character is a what I would call a bad ass good guy. He and his lady, Wolfie/Anna get themselves tangled into a difficult and scary situation in order to avenge his daughter, Mercy. How they go about it will definitely leave you up late at night turning pages.
Because I know his books are absolute must reads I scanned pass the explicit sexual scenes to find out what happens. Normally that is a stop point for me. As an American reader I tend to be a little more prudish than those of other countries, it's just my personal thing. As anticipated, the overall storyline was well worth it.
The only problem now is waiting for book two!
I received an advanced copy of the book but the opinions are my own.
November 3, 2019
Mercy is an awesome book. Detective Matt Deal has a lot to deal with between his wife, Lorey and his daughter, Mercy. This book will have you hooked right from the start. It's set in the near future and all the things happening could be actually happening now. The lengths dads will go to for their daughter/s is infinite. Matt and his partner, Wolfie, have a great partnership, can't wait to see where their story progresses throughout the series. It is a must read for anyone who lives a good thriller.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I have also preordered a copy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I have also preordered a copy.
January 17, 2020
RECOMMENDED!
Hang on to your hat...this thriller is not for the faint-hearted! Matt Deal is a hard-hitting, hot-blooded detective seeking peace and justice for his daughter, Mercy. His voyage takes him into dark places but, he emerges stronger and with a new hot side-kick, Wolfie Jules! The facts of the cases that he works are stellar, his romps with the ladies made this girl blush more than once! Stephen Bentley has created a crime fighter that will remind you of vintage detective mags! Bravo!
Hang on to your hat...this thriller is not for the faint-hearted! Matt Deal is a hard-hitting, hot-blooded detective seeking peace and justice for his daughter, Mercy. His voyage takes him into dark places but, he emerges stronger and with a new hot side-kick, Wolfie Jules! The facts of the cases that he works are stellar, his romps with the ladies made this girl blush more than once! Stephen Bentley has created a crime fighter that will remind you of vintage detective mags! Bravo!
January 12, 2020
2 1/2 stars, rounded up to 3, because it was, basically, an engaging action-packed story. Low rating because of the sex, graphic violence and frequent profanity. I cringed my way through it, actually. Tone it down, please, a little next time, Mr. Bentley.
April 21, 2021
2024, Florida Panhandle. Navarre Beach. Mercy Deal (15, daughter) met Conor O’Rourke (20, Georgia Tech U, Kappa Alpha frat boy).
Then she took a drink that had a date-rape drug in it.
She was no longer a virgin.
Wolfie Jules had been prowling the beach.
Captain Mike Stevenson (Fort Walton Beach PD) was talking with Wolfie (30+, Hispanic) who had called 911.
Sacred Heart ER. Mercy was being looked at.
Detective Matt Deal (husband/father) rushed to hospital.
Dr. Destin (brain trauma surgeon) greeted & spoke with Detective Deal when they arrived.
Not good news at all.
Sandestin. Captain Stevenson & the PD busted down the condo door. The Kappa Alpha frat boys: Conor O’Rourke, Roland Fenney, Brett Angus, Paul Greenslade, & Tim Heath had been smoking MJ & drinking.
The 5 suspects were read their Miranda rights & hauled down to the station.
They had bailed out.
Court was held & they were all released.
6-months later, Mercy was still in a coma.
Wolfie Jules (computer genius) & Sheba (Wolfie’s German Shepherd) came to work for Detective Matt Deal (Homicide/Robbery) at the Big Deal’s Gym.
Detective Deal invited his ex-wife Lorey to the Napoli pizza parlor.
Emily Breen (NCA IA head) met with Detective Deal.
Detective Deal was still suspended 6 months after the death of Tommy Etchwell “Butcher of Brighton” Darker Productions owner.
Mercy was now in Tallahassee Memorial Hospital a specialist neurological trauma center PVS wing.
Jack Hughes (grandfather, wealthy) was picking up the tab.
The Crown versus Matthew Deal.
Not guilty.
Sheba Investigations. Mrs. Tina Gonsales (wife) came to see Matt Deal about Leo Gonsales (husband, construction foreman).
Mobile, AL. trailer park. Matt went to visit with Celia LeFevre (widow, wheelchair bound. Social Security) about here deceased husband Pierre LeFevre (aka Peter).
Jack Hughes (Matt’s ex-father-in-law, Hughes Realty Inc.) made an urgent call.
What were Andy Messina & Joe Caruso up to?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written crime thriller book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Condor Publishing; BookFunnel; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Then she took a drink that had a date-rape drug in it.
She was no longer a virgin.
Wolfie Jules had been prowling the beach.
Captain Mike Stevenson (Fort Walton Beach PD) was talking with Wolfie (30+, Hispanic) who had called 911.
Sacred Heart ER. Mercy was being looked at.
Detective Matt Deal (husband/father) rushed to hospital.
Dr. Destin (brain trauma surgeon) greeted & spoke with Detective Deal when they arrived.
Not good news at all.
Sandestin. Captain Stevenson & the PD busted down the condo door. The Kappa Alpha frat boys: Conor O’Rourke, Roland Fenney, Brett Angus, Paul Greenslade, & Tim Heath had been smoking MJ & drinking.
The 5 suspects were read their Miranda rights & hauled down to the station.
They had bailed out.
Court was held & they were all released.
6-months later, Mercy was still in a coma.
Wolfie Jules (computer genius) & Sheba (Wolfie’s German Shepherd) came to work for Detective Matt Deal (Homicide/Robbery) at the Big Deal’s Gym.
Detective Deal invited his ex-wife Lorey to the Napoli pizza parlor.
Emily Breen (NCA IA head) met with Detective Deal.
Detective Deal was still suspended 6 months after the death of Tommy Etchwell “Butcher of Brighton” Darker Productions owner.
Mercy was now in Tallahassee Memorial Hospital a specialist neurological trauma center PVS wing.
Jack Hughes (grandfather, wealthy) was picking up the tab.
The Crown versus Matthew Deal.
Not guilty.
Sheba Investigations. Mrs. Tina Gonsales (wife) came to see Matt Deal about Leo Gonsales (husband, construction foreman).
Mobile, AL. trailer park. Matt went to visit with Celia LeFevre (widow, wheelchair bound. Social Security) about here deceased husband Pierre LeFevre (aka Peter).
Jack Hughes (Matt’s ex-father-in-law, Hughes Realty Inc.) made an urgent call.
What were Andy Messina & Joe Caruso up to?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written crime thriller book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Condor Publishing; BookFunnel; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
August 29, 2021
Most of my review of this book is criticism. I want to say at the start, I enjoyed this book very much and I recommend it. It’s a great thriller. That being said….
I’m not fond of the use of the word faggot. While it’s a dysphemism some people still use, it was used by the protagonist which didn’t help to make him any more likable.
The second thing I really disliked about this story was the usage of the word “silencer” to refer to a suppressor. But even more than that was the misrepresentation of what they do. They don’t silence gunfire, they suppress it.
The third thing that annoys me was the cliffhanger ending. It ends right in the middle of a scene. There was no attempt to wrap it up. The summary doesn’t give you any indication that you need to read multiple books to get the full story. When you compare it to Sherlock Holmes stories, for example, they’re all standalone stories and you don’t need the full set to enjoy them. This has always annoyed me about books. The book cover, title, something should give an indication and say “part 1”.
While sites like Audible say “Detective Matt Deal Thrillers, Book 1”, that doesn’t always mean that the book is split. Look at Sherlock Holmes stories for example. They may be referred to as “Sherlock Holmes #5”, but they’re standalone.
This book is full of gratuitous violence and sex, murder, deceit and so much more. The sex scenes are a bit cringey if I’m being honest, they could really use some work. Everybody is just horny all the time. The hung protagonist doesn’t seem to encounter a woman who doesn’t want him. But it’s all good fun.
For the most part, the narrator sounds emotionless as he’s reading. Some of the story is set in the U.K. but nobody has even a hint of an accent. The only time an accent is even hinted at is when one character makes fun of another for it.
Despite all my complaints, I enjoyed this story very much. It’s fun, action-packed and, intense. It’s one of those books that reads like you’re listening to an action movie. Give it a read (or listen).
NOTE: This copy was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
I’m not fond of the use of the word faggot. While it’s a dysphemism some people still use, it was used by the protagonist which didn’t help to make him any more likable.
The second thing I really disliked about this story was the usage of the word “silencer” to refer to a suppressor. But even more than that was the misrepresentation of what they do. They don’t silence gunfire, they suppress it.
The third thing that annoys me was the cliffhanger ending. It ends right in the middle of a scene. There was no attempt to wrap it up. The summary doesn’t give you any indication that you need to read multiple books to get the full story. When you compare it to Sherlock Holmes stories, for example, they’re all standalone stories and you don’t need the full set to enjoy them. This has always annoyed me about books. The book cover, title, something should give an indication and say “part 1”.
While sites like Audible say “Detective Matt Deal Thrillers, Book 1”, that doesn’t always mean that the book is split. Look at Sherlock Holmes stories for example. They may be referred to as “Sherlock Holmes #5”, but they’re standalone.
This book is full of gratuitous violence and sex, murder, deceit and so much more. The sex scenes are a bit cringey if I’m being honest, they could really use some work. Everybody is just horny all the time. The hung protagonist doesn’t seem to encounter a woman who doesn’t want him. But it’s all good fun.
For the most part, the narrator sounds emotionless as he’s reading. Some of the story is set in the U.K. but nobody has even a hint of an accent. The only time an accent is even hinted at is when one character makes fun of another for it.
Despite all my complaints, I enjoyed this story very much. It’s fun, action-packed and, intense. It’s one of those books that reads like you’re listening to an action movie. Give it a read (or listen).
NOTE: This copy was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
June 14, 2021
I received an offer of a review copy of the Mercy audiobook through StoryOrigin and after reading in the title it was a Detective thriller I jumped on the opportunity. This story takes off right out of the gate with some very intense action that readers who prefer “clean” thrillers may find offensive or off-putting. So for anyone reading this review if you prefer not to read thrillers with adult subject matter maybe you are better off looking elsewhere, however if it’s not an issue for you, the intense action in this story starts right off the bat and stays on the same pace throughout the story. I honestly could see this as a Jason Statham movie. The dialogue throughout the story reminded me of old school detective stories which brought back a feeling of nostalgia. The only issue I had with the audiobook was the narration – Matt Deal and several other characters are British, sadly there was no British accent in the narration – and this really would have made this audiobook more enjoyable.
January 17, 2020
Mercy
By Stephen Bentley
3 stars.
The first in a series featuring private detective Matt Deal and Wolfie Jules.
This is an easy to read style of futuristic mystery action fiction. Set across England and the USA, the story flows slowly as the characters are introduced and developed.
When Matt’s daughter is sexually assaulted and left in a coma, Matt leaves justice to the local authorities and flees to England. On his return he commences hunting down those who escaped justice with the help of his live-in girlfriend Wolfie.
While the story takes a while to get going, it does get there in the end.
This title has been reviewed by www.books-reviewed.weebly.com
This title was provided by Netgalley and the publisher in return for an open and honest review.
#Mercyt #NetGalley
By Stephen Bentley
3 stars.
The first in a series featuring private detective Matt Deal and Wolfie Jules.
This is an easy to read style of futuristic mystery action fiction. Set across England and the USA, the story flows slowly as the characters are introduced and developed.
When Matt’s daughter is sexually assaulted and left in a coma, Matt leaves justice to the local authorities and flees to England. On his return he commences hunting down those who escaped justice with the help of his live-in girlfriend Wolfie.
While the story takes a while to get going, it does get there in the end.
This title has been reviewed by www.books-reviewed.weebly.com
This title was provided by Netgalley and the publisher in return for an open and honest review.
#Mercyt #NetGalley
February 24, 2020
Matt Deal has experienced the worst side of life, his daughter Mercy was gangraped and left in such a bad state she will never live a normal life. The police investigation is tainted, loss of evidence meant the people were never prosecuted. In his despair he returns home to the U.K and starts a new life as a detective. When his new life turns sour and he finds himself dodging the law in thw U.K , Matt turns to his friend Wolfie, who using her special skills, arranges his return to America where he finally discovers the truth about the night of his daughter's rape, and this sets him on his own course of revenge.
I found Mercy very intense and a past paced story. Matt just never gets on the right side and I found I was just so hoping he would find peace...and a little love with Wolfie!
I found Mercy very intense and a past paced story. Matt just never gets on the right side and I found I was just so hoping he would find peace...and a little love with Wolfie!
Read
February 9, 2021Mercy: Detective Matt Deal Thrillers, Book 1, my first highly enjoyable read from author Stephen Bentley, An author I'd not heard of before getting the opportunity to read & review this book.! December seemed to be my month for new authors, January continued the trend, and now February. A well written, entertaining read, with intriguing, well-developed characters. A bit slow to start but when it took off I couldn't turn pages fast enough. Chris Defazio"s outstanding narration added greatly to a good book's enjoyment. “I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." I look forward to reading more from this author. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
December 12, 2020
Cannot put this down!
Once started,you will read to the end. A brilliantly contrived story bringing two great people together. Matt has a daughter with brain damage from a gang rape. He has a lush for a wife and a very unpleasant father in law.
Matt is forced to leave the U S A and join the police force in a post Brexit Britain. Not before putting a witness, Wolfie, in charge of his gym. Not to spoil anything but the action keeps coming and 7 years later, Matt is back in America and Wolfie is by his side. Time for revenge!!
I really enjoyed this novel and need to get to the second in the series, as and when. Definitely more please.
Once started,you will read to the end. A brilliantly contrived story bringing two great people together. Matt has a daughter with brain damage from a gang rape. He has a lush for a wife and a very unpleasant father in law.
Matt is forced to leave the U S A and join the police force in a post Brexit Britain. Not before putting a witness, Wolfie, in charge of his gym. Not to spoil anything but the action keeps coming and 7 years later, Matt is back in America and Wolfie is by his side. Time for revenge!!
I really enjoyed this novel and need to get to the second in the series, as and when. Definitely more please.
September 18, 2020
EBook Review: MERCY by Stephen Bentley
(M) urder
(E) valuated...
(R) egarding
(C) hewed
(Y) anked
MERCY speaks of compassion, none applied to her.
Callously left to die, can't reveal who did.
One at the top, knew her quite well.
But that didn't matter, left her as is.
Lots of intimate games, crossing paths and impacting.
Being one in charge, was part of fun.
Was met with resistance, working together were many.
I'm rooting for them, hoping all works out.
Portions in here, for me gets X-rated.
Still I worked through, read to the end!
(M) urder
(E) valuated...
(R) egarding
(C) hewed
(Y) anked
MERCY speaks of compassion, none applied to her.
Callously left to die, can't reveal who did.
One at the top, knew her quite well.
But that didn't matter, left her as is.
Lots of intimate games, crossing paths and impacting.
Being one in charge, was part of fun.
Was met with resistance, working together were many.
I'm rooting for them, hoping all works out.
Portions in here, for me gets X-rated.
Still I worked through, read to the end!
November 24, 2020
This book drew me in and held me delightfully-captive from beginning to end. The plot keeps you guessing, the characters are realistic, likable and identifiable and the scenery is described in such a way as to make you feel that you are an actual bystander in every scene. Once I started reading this story, the desperate need for sleep is the only thing that made me put my Kindle down. I am SO excited to move on to the next book in the series!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
May 22, 2020
A thriller to the end and beyond. Matt Deal is seeking revenge for his daughter's rape and destruction. Great plot. Great characters. Great action. Well written. Looking forward to more of these characters.
I listened to Audible version and was sometimes lost with so many different characters. But once sorted out it was very entertaining.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Story Origin.
I listened to Audible version and was sometimes lost with so many different characters. But once sorted out it was very entertaining.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Story Origin.
December 27, 2020
After what happens to his daughter, Matt Deal goes back to the UK and becomes a hard hitting detective. A lot happens while he’s there and eventually comes back to the US. Having lived in the areas of Fort Walton Beach and Destin I liked the specific accurate details about the area. Now Matt has a partner in Wolfie and they become vigilantes to give justice for his daughter. This story brings you in and has you turning the pages til you’re done.
November 29, 2020
This is an honest review of a free book sent via voracious readers.
Wow what a fantastic film this would make. Absolutely loved the uk's post brexit state of affairs. Let's hope it is just fiction. The author really brings the characters to life with many twists and turns along the way. If you enjoy a good book then this one is a must.
Wow what a fantastic film this would make. Absolutely loved the uk's post brexit state of affairs. Let's hope it is just fiction. The author really brings the characters to life with many twists and turns along the way. If you enjoy a good book then this one is a must.
April 25, 2020
Enjoyable rad, and what a finish
This book is set in the near future and the action moves from the US to a dystopian England and back again. I liked the main character and his sidekick.
This book is set in the near future and the action moves from the US to a dystopian England and back again. I liked the main character and his sidekick.
December 15, 2020
Fun fast read
This is supposedly set in the near future . The UK and the US seem to be close . I see the story as a combination current and early mid 20th century (gangster ) comedy . Lots of action .
This is supposedly set in the near future . The UK and the US seem to be close . I see the story as a combination current and early mid 20th century (gangster ) comedy . Lots of action .
May 1, 2020
Great read
Hooked me fast and I spent the day reading. Very hard to put down. I look forward to the next book!
Hooked me fast and I spent the day reading. Very hard to put down. I look forward to the next book!
June 4, 2020
Thriller of the year.
Mercy is one hell of a ride! Stephen Bentley has written one awesome thriller, page turning suspense at its best. Mercy is one of the best thrillers that I have read. Disappointed to cone to the end of the novel, cant wait for the next book in the Matt Deal series. Highly recommend. Shortlisted for the best book we have read all year through readfree.ly.
Mercy is one hell of a ride! Stephen Bentley has written one awesome thriller, page turning suspense at its best. Mercy is one of the best thrillers that I have read. Disappointed to cone to the end of the novel, cant wait for the next book in the Matt Deal series. Highly recommend. Shortlisted for the best book we have read all year through readfree.ly.
July 31, 2020
Highly Captivating.
Loved the characters as well as the storyline. Well written, hard to put down at times. I would highly recommend.
Loved the characters as well as the storyline. Well written, hard to put down at times. I would highly recommend.
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