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John Milton #16
The Man Who Never Was
CAN THE MAN WHO NEVER WAS CATCH THE CRIMINALS WHO NEVER GET CAUGHT?
John Milton is used to operating in the shadows, weaving his way through dangerous places, behind a fake identity. Now, to avenge the death of a close friend, he must wear his mask of deception once more.
Beau Baxter was brutally murdered by a drug cartel, but that doesn't stop Milton from blaming himself for his friend's death. With the help of a trusted team of undercover experts and Beau's son, Milton is determined to track down the killers. And he isn't just after the man who gave the order. He's heading right for the top.
Milton plans to follow the trail of cocaine from the nightclubs of Amsterdam all the way to its source in Columbia. Disguised as an ambitious buyer, he's prepared to work his way up the cartel hierarchy one rung at a time. But the ladder can be slippery, and as Milton travels deeper into a world of violence, ruthlessness and greed, he finds himself in a jungle that could prove impossible to escape.
RUNNING TIME ===>> 11hrs. and 12mins.
©2020 Mark Dawson (P)2020 Audible, Ltd
John Milton is used to operating in the shadows, weaving his way through dangerous places, behind a fake identity. Now, to avenge the death of a close friend, he must wear his mask of deception once more.
Beau Baxter was brutally murdered by a drug cartel, but that doesn't stop Milton from blaming himself for his friend's death. With the help of a trusted team of undercover experts and Beau's son, Milton is determined to track down the killers. And he isn't just after the man who gave the order. He's heading right for the top.
Milton plans to follow the trail of cocaine from the nightclubs of Amsterdam all the way to its source in Columbia. Disguised as an ambitious buyer, he's prepared to work his way up the cartel hierarchy one rung at a time. But the ladder can be slippery, and as Milton travels deeper into a world of violence, ruthlessness and greed, he finds himself in a jungle that could prove impossible to escape.
RUNNING TIME ===>> 11hrs. and 12mins.
©2020 Mark Dawson (P)2020 Audible, Ltd
Audible Audio
First published April 29, 2020
2379 people are currently reading
456 people want to read
About the author
Mark Dawson
114 books1,859 followersFor news and special offers join Mark's mailing list at:
http://eepurl.com/Cai5X
Mark Dawson was born in Lowestoft and grew up in Manchester and Chicago. He has worked as a lawyer and currently works in the London film industry. His first books, "The Art of Falling Apart" and "Subpoena Colada" have been published in multiple languages.
He is currently writing two series. Soho Noir is set in the West End of London between 1940 and 1970. The first book in the series, "The Black Mile", deals with the (real life but little known) serial killer who operated in the area during the Blitz. "The Imposter" traces the journey of a criminal family (think The Sopranos in austerity London and you'd be on the right track).
The John Milton series features a disgruntled special agent who aims to help people to make amends for the terrible things that he has done. Mark, as a child of the 80s, will freely admit that he watched a lot of The Equalizer in his youth.
Mark lives in Wiltshire with his family.
You can find him at www.markjdawson.com or www.facebook.com/markdawsonauthor.
http://eepurl.com/Cai5X
Mark Dawson was born in Lowestoft and grew up in Manchester and Chicago. He has worked as a lawyer and currently works in the London film industry. His first books, "The Art of Falling Apart" and "Subpoena Colada" have been published in multiple languages.
He is currently writing two series. Soho Noir is set in the West End of London between 1940 and 1970. The first book in the series, "The Black Mile", deals with the (real life but little known) serial killer who operated in the area during the Blitz. "The Imposter" traces the journey of a criminal family (think The Sopranos in austerity London and you'd be on the right track).
The John Milton series features a disgruntled special agent who aims to help people to make amends for the terrible things that he has done. Mark, as a child of the 80s, will freely admit that he watched a lot of The Equalizer in his youth.
Mark lives in Wiltshire with his family.
You can find him at www.markjdawson.com or www.facebook.com/markdawsonauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
May 4, 2020
Absolutely Fantastic!!! John Milton has held my heart for so long, he is a very good man who, due to some amazing skills, is often put in a position of defending- either a person or a country! Milton has been on the road to redemption for some time, attempting to do good for the innocent to try to make up for all he had done as the lead assassin in Group 15. But along the way there are some extreme enemies who hurt/kill Milton's friends and family...And the 'Old' Milton rises for Revenge!!
Milton contacts some friends, each with a specific ability to aide in his quest, and the small bunch will do anything for each other. A USA Ambassador is murdered, seemingly by the Cartel, in Bogota. Milton has a plan to go for the Cartel, and Remove the Head..but this is no easy task! Plenty of wild action, intrigue, and double-crossing agents from all over the world. Forced to go to the jungles of Columbia, where the FBI,DEA and Group 15 are All in their own missions with removing the woman who heads the drug dealing Cartel...And Milton finds himself in the middle of friends and foe, not knowing who to trust or which way to turn...
Another outstanding adventure by an author whose words hold you spell-bound from start to finish!! I received an ARC from the author and I offer You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review.
Milton contacts some friends, each with a specific ability to aide in his quest, and the small bunch will do anything for each other. A USA Ambassador is murdered, seemingly by the Cartel, in Bogota. Milton has a plan to go for the Cartel, and Remove the Head..but this is no easy task! Plenty of wild action, intrigue, and double-crossing agents from all over the world. Forced to go to the jungles of Columbia, where the FBI,DEA and Group 15 are All in their own missions with removing the woman who heads the drug dealing Cartel...And Milton finds himself in the middle of friends and foe, not knowing who to trust or which way to turn...
Another outstanding adventure by an author whose words hold you spell-bound from start to finish!! I received an ARC from the author and I offer You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review.
May 16, 2023
*Vengeance*
Milton is a man on a mission. He is reeling from losing a friend Beau Baxter, who died while helping Milton on a job. Deep inside Milton feels his friend Beau would still be alive if he was not helping him. His friend was executed while in hospital Milton will not let that stand….
Milton is so used to working on his own now that he stepped away from the government elite ‘Group Fifteen’. He was their top Assassin who has the unique ability to blend in. That particular quality made him the danger you never saw coming. The job drove him to drink and he is a recovering alcoholic, that being said he is very resourceful and in order to exact his revenge he will need all his wits about him.
The target of his revenge is not just anyone, it’s the cartel. He will not settle for the one who gave the order for the hit, he wants all the players. Milton always goes by the name John Smith which helps him forget who he was, this time he will have to dig deep as he needs to bring his old persona Milton back to the surface. He brings along with him, Ziggy an annoying yet expert and gifted hacker. Hicks a capable ex soldier and Beau’s Son Chase a Marine.
Sadly for Milton, there are other groups invested in the similar goals as he is, there is The DEA, FBI and one group in particular that is too close to home. What happens when the teams face off and and Milton is on his own in the middle of it all….. there is also a blast from the past for Milton….
I could not put this down and it is definitely not a bedtime read. Mark Dawson’s descriptions of fights, the surroundings and countries made me feel like I was a fly on the wall albeit one quivering in a corner
Milton is a man on a mission. He is reeling from losing a friend Beau Baxter, who died while helping Milton on a job. Deep inside Milton feels his friend Beau would still be alive if he was not helping him. His friend was executed while in hospital Milton will not let that stand….
Milton is so used to working on his own now that he stepped away from the government elite ‘Group Fifteen’. He was their top Assassin who has the unique ability to blend in. That particular quality made him the danger you never saw coming. The job drove him to drink and he is a recovering alcoholic, that being said he is very resourceful and in order to exact his revenge he will need all his wits about him.
The target of his revenge is not just anyone, it’s the cartel. He will not settle for the one who gave the order for the hit, he wants all the players. Milton always goes by the name John Smith which helps him forget who he was, this time he will have to dig deep as he needs to bring his old persona Milton back to the surface. He brings along with him, Ziggy an annoying yet expert and gifted hacker. Hicks a capable ex soldier and Beau’s Son Chase a Marine.
Sadly for Milton, there are other groups invested in the similar goals as he is, there is The DEA, FBI and one group in particular that is too close to home. What happens when the teams face off and and Milton is on his own in the middle of it all….. there is also a blast from the past for Milton….
I could not put this down and it is definitely not a bedtime read. Mark Dawson’s descriptions of fights, the surroundings and countries made me feel like I was a fly on the wall albeit one quivering in a corner
May 12, 2020
Pretty good tale from Dawson. Starts out as a sting against narcotic dealers and winds up with the usual action thriller readers of the Milton series have come to expect.
Characters from previous Milton novels play an important part. Chase, Hicks, Ziggy, FBI agent Flowers.
Unfortunately, from my standpoint, Dawson has changed this from a series with the Milton character, but basically stand alone thrillers, into a continuing story. Not my favorite way to enjoy my characters. But that's the way things go.
Characters from previous Milton novels play an important part. Chase, Hicks, Ziggy, FBI agent Flowers.
Unfortunately, from my standpoint, Dawson has changed this from a series with the Milton character, but basically stand alone thrillers, into a continuing story. Not my favorite way to enjoy my characters. But that's the way things go.
August 9, 2020
It was not the best one in the series but I really do love this characte and Mark Dawson is a great author. I think it's time that Milton travels to another part of the world. He has to fight some other injustice and not only drug lords. The different locations and situations are one of my favortie parts of this series but our hero has been to Mexico a lot. Still a great read and stongly recommended.
May 17, 2020
I never thought I would say this about a John Milton novel, but this one was boring. I failed to engage in the story, it had the same boring plot and characters as the previous two or three books, and it didn't come to a logical conclusion. The Milton character had little or no input in the story and quite obviously this was a cynical set up for the proper ending, the next book?
April 29, 2020
If you came for a lot of action, you sure did come to the right place. It starts out simple enough, the US Ambassador in Bogota is assassinated by the cartel. Milton, Ziggy, Hicks and Chase head to Amsterdam for some justice as that is where the distribution point is for the drugs and Milton isn’t settling for just getting the person responsible for the hit. John’s plan is to infiltrate the cartel, arrange for the main British buyer to be removed from the picture, and set himself up to take over. As you can imagine, this is no easy task just to get to this point. To cut off the head of the snake, though, means to go to Columbia. Milton isn’t the only one interested in taking down the operation, so is the FBI and DEA. Ellie and her team are down there as well. So we have Milton’s team, Ellie’s team and the drug cartel soldiers. These aren’t going to be peace talks. Oh, and there is one other team down there, Group 15. Wait, weren’t they disbanded when they lost Control? They’re back! And there is a new Number 1. This is a book that defines the word “Thriller”.
December 12, 2023
A Riveting Page-Turner with a Twist - "The Man Who Never Was" by Mark Dawson
Rating: ★★★★★
Mark Dawson's "The Man Who Never Was" delivers another adrenaline-fueled adventure featuring the complex and intriguing character, John Milton. In this latest installment of the series, Dawson weaves a gripping narrative that combines high-stakes action with a cleverly constructed plot.
The story kicks off with Milton's quiet life disrupted by a cryptic message, leading him down a path of danger and deception. As he navigates a web of international intrigue and covert operations, readers are treated to Dawson's trademark blend of suspense and character depth.
What sets "The Man Who Never Was" apart is its expertly crafted plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Dawson's storytelling prowess is on full display as he keeps the reader guessing, unraveling a mystery that goes beyond the conventional boundaries of the genre. The novel's pacing is relentless, propelling the narrative forward with each chapter.
John Milton continues to be a compelling and enigmatic protagonist. His internal conflicts and moral dilemmas add layers to the story, providing an emotional depth that resonates with readers. Dawson delves into Milton's past, exploring the consequences of his actions and the toll it takes on his soul, making him a protagonist with both flaws and virtues.
The action sequences are well-choreographed, delivering heart-pounding moments that showcase Milton's lethal skills. Dawson strikes a balance between intense, pulse-pounding scenes and quieter, introspective moments, creating a narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
While "The Man Who Never Was" is accessible to readers new to the John Milton series, fans of the character will appreciate the subtle nuances and references to Milton's past adventures. Dawson adeptly manages to keep the story self-contained while rewarding long-time followers with nods to the overarching narrative.
In summary, "The Man Who Never Was" is a thrilling addition to the John Milton series, offering a captivating blend of espionage, action, and moral complexity. Mark Dawson continues to deliver a masterful combination of plot twists and character development that keeps readers hooked. Whether you're a devoted fan of the series or a newcomer looking for a gripping thriller, this novel is sure to satisfy your craving for a high-stakes, edge-of-your-seat read.
Rating: ★★★★★
Mark Dawson's "The Man Who Never Was" delivers another adrenaline-fueled adventure featuring the complex and intriguing character, John Milton. In this latest installment of the series, Dawson weaves a gripping narrative that combines high-stakes action with a cleverly constructed plot.
The story kicks off with Milton's quiet life disrupted by a cryptic message, leading him down a path of danger and deception. As he navigates a web of international intrigue and covert operations, readers are treated to Dawson's trademark blend of suspense and character depth.
What sets "The Man Who Never Was" apart is its expertly crafted plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Dawson's storytelling prowess is on full display as he keeps the reader guessing, unraveling a mystery that goes beyond the conventional boundaries of the genre. The novel's pacing is relentless, propelling the narrative forward with each chapter.
John Milton continues to be a compelling and enigmatic protagonist. His internal conflicts and moral dilemmas add layers to the story, providing an emotional depth that resonates with readers. Dawson delves into Milton's past, exploring the consequences of his actions and the toll it takes on his soul, making him a protagonist with both flaws and virtues.
The action sequences are well-choreographed, delivering heart-pounding moments that showcase Milton's lethal skills. Dawson strikes a balance between intense, pulse-pounding scenes and quieter, introspective moments, creating a narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
While "The Man Who Never Was" is accessible to readers new to the John Milton series, fans of the character will appreciate the subtle nuances and references to Milton's past adventures. Dawson adeptly manages to keep the story self-contained while rewarding long-time followers with nods to the overarching narrative.
In summary, "The Man Who Never Was" is a thrilling addition to the John Milton series, offering a captivating blend of espionage, action, and moral complexity. Mark Dawson continues to deliver a masterful combination of plot twists and character development that keeps readers hooked. Whether you're a devoted fan of the series or a newcomer looking for a gripping thriller, this novel is sure to satisfy your craving for a high-stakes, edge-of-your-seat read.
June 7, 2022
Milton really gets tested in so many different ways, trying to avenge his friends death.
September 20, 2021
Probably one of the best books I’ve listened to in this series the story did carry on from previous book which was great well worth a read or listen story line was spot on Milton and the others at there best
May 29, 2022
In the midst of a drug cartel in Cartagena, Columbia John Milton is set on finding Justice for his friend Beau. Beau was killed by the enforcer of the drug cartel.
June 5, 2020
An ok read with a strong storyline but honestly, not enough action. Milton is just a bit player in this story and really achieves very little
December 14, 2020
Jungles?
I like John Milton.
I prefer him to operate in Europe or the USA.
I want more psychological truth for his motivation.
He needs to finish group 15 off for good.
I like John Milton.
I prefer him to operate in Europe or the USA.
I want more psychological truth for his motivation.
He needs to finish group 15 off for good.
May 11, 2020
It seems to have become a bit of a habit to say for each new John Milton book that it is the best in the series so far, I have been doing it right from the second book, and here I am saying it yet again!
Although this is a bit of a continuation from 'Bright Lights' it is definitely still a full stand-alone adventure, featuring of course Milton, on top form attempting to balance the bad in the ledger of his life with some good, in this case taking out the head of a drugs cartel who was responsible for the death of his friend, Beau.
There are three aspects of Mark Dawson's writing that make it stand out, firstly the characters, which are always really well described and who always react in believable ways, in this book he uses his small team of Ziggy and Hicks but also has Chase (Beau's son) along with him. The second aspect is the pacing and action passages he includes, in this book he sets a great pace at the start, and the story really bowls along, with carefully positioned action sequences to put an even higher spike in the adrenaline levels, finally reaching a truly explosive climax.
The final aspect that stands out for me is the way that the locations are described so evocatively, in this case Amsterdam and the night clubs, then to Columbia via Mexico, invoking the humid heat of the jungle and the slums in Medellin.
So John Milton, one of my favourite thriller characters uses his wits and experience to give us another epic thriller, but in the process he has put a target on his back again, setting things up nicely for future books.
I am fortunate to be an advance reader for Mr Dawson, so I did receive a complimentary copy of the book, but have voluntarily written this honest review.
Although this is a bit of a continuation from 'Bright Lights' it is definitely still a full stand-alone adventure, featuring of course Milton, on top form attempting to balance the bad in the ledger of his life with some good, in this case taking out the head of a drugs cartel who was responsible for the death of his friend, Beau.
There are three aspects of Mark Dawson's writing that make it stand out, firstly the characters, which are always really well described and who always react in believable ways, in this book he uses his small team of Ziggy and Hicks but also has Chase (Beau's son) along with him. The second aspect is the pacing and action passages he includes, in this book he sets a great pace at the start, and the story really bowls along, with carefully positioned action sequences to put an even higher spike in the adrenaline levels, finally reaching a truly explosive climax.
The final aspect that stands out for me is the way that the locations are described so evocatively, in this case Amsterdam and the night clubs, then to Columbia via Mexico, invoking the humid heat of the jungle and the slums in Medellin.
So John Milton, one of my favourite thriller characters uses his wits and experience to give us another epic thriller, but in the process he has put a target on his back again, setting things up nicely for future books.
I am fortunate to be an advance reader for Mr Dawson, so I did receive a complimentary copy of the book, but have voluntarily written this honest review.
November 1, 2020
This was yet another enjoyable outing for John Milton, though again another slight disappointment.
I wasn't as drawn into the plot of this one as I normally am which is surprising being as this one is essentially a continuation of the novel that preceded it. I think that it's simply because the stakes weren't there for me. Normally Milton is acting in the way he does in order to save someone's life or help make a dire situation right. This time he was just acting off his own back and as a result, it lacked the urgency these novels normally have.
Seeing Ellie Flowers was a welcome surprise and continues this theme of the last few novels where Milton starts to interact more with recurring characters. She was a little underused maybe and I hoped that she might have a bit more time to spend with Milton, but overall she was a pro for this book.
My final gripe with this book was what I felt was a missed opportunity. We finished the last novel with the expectation that this book would see Milton cut loose. He has severed the chains that held him back and he was going to go all out to get at the cartel... but we never really saw anything from him that we haven't seen before. It's a bit of a shame.
Overall, and as I have said before, I really enjoyed this book and it was only let down by the high standards I hold this series too. Mark Dawson has proved himself with John Milton time and again and so, therefore, I hold him to a higher standard than other authors. It is a little unfair maybe, but something I can't help.
As always though, I finish this novel eager to read the next. When you can say that 16 books into a series, then you know you are onto a good thing.
I wasn't as drawn into the plot of this one as I normally am which is surprising being as this one is essentially a continuation of the novel that preceded it. I think that it's simply because the stakes weren't there for me. Normally Milton is acting in the way he does in order to save someone's life or help make a dire situation right. This time he was just acting off his own back and as a result, it lacked the urgency these novels normally have.
Seeing Ellie Flowers was a welcome surprise and continues this theme of the last few novels where Milton starts to interact more with recurring characters. She was a little underused maybe and I hoped that she might have a bit more time to spend with Milton, but overall she was a pro for this book.
My final gripe with this book was what I felt was a missed opportunity. We finished the last novel with the expectation that this book would see Milton cut loose. He has severed the chains that held him back and he was going to go all out to get at the cartel... but we never really saw anything from him that we haven't seen before. It's a bit of a shame.
Overall, and as I have said before, I really enjoyed this book and it was only let down by the high standards I hold this series too. Mark Dawson has proved himself with John Milton time and again and so, therefore, I hold him to a higher standard than other authors. It is a little unfair maybe, but something I can't help.
As always though, I finish this novel eager to read the next. When you can say that 16 books into a series, then you know you are onto a good thing.
December 2, 2020
What are you thinking, Mark Dawson, to write a book where
Milton does not get into action at all until chapter NINTY! (Ninty, Ninty, Ninty!!!)???
And this little bit of action was really poor. From chapter 1 - 90 there is a lot of talking and primitive, ridiculous storyline. (Of course, Milton gets sooooo easily invited to the Columbian drug bosses and even to the highest level, ha, ha, what a joke). The dialogues were awful, cheap and dumb. Milton did never anything interesting, he was only a figure in the whole bad story.
And then again your impudent fillers you always use to an extreme: Describing every little detailed fart. For example Milton gets into his car: He is putting the key into the ignition, turning the key to the right, the engine starts, gives some rumbling .... and so one and so one. . What the hell?!
This way, even myself I can write a book of 1.000 pages easily! This is unbelievable, how respectless you treat the readers with this crap.
And the worst this time is that Milton has no role at all in the hole boring, tedious, bad written book, and there is no damned action in that wannabe Ex-Killer and Ex-SAS fiction novel!
Mark Dawson! You did not do your job but told us over and over again in this novel how bad Milton feels about his (oh, so horrible) past, you retold us stories from past books we already know, you puffed up your poor story with description fillers to an extreme and you did not give a shit if you therewith disappoint your readers.
I do not read one single sentence of you anymore. The only light in this dark tunnel of horrible writing is the narrator David Thorpe. He is the only one who has done a great job. As always.
Milton does not get into action at all until chapter NINTY! (Ninty, Ninty, Ninty!!!)???
And this little bit of action was really poor. From chapter 1 - 90 there is a lot of talking and primitive, ridiculous storyline. (Of course, Milton gets sooooo easily invited to the Columbian drug bosses and even to the highest level, ha, ha, what a joke). The dialogues were awful, cheap and dumb. Milton did never anything interesting, he was only a figure in the whole bad story.
And then again your impudent fillers you always use to an extreme: Describing every little detailed fart. For example Milton gets into his car: He is putting the key into the ignition, turning the key to the right, the engine starts, gives some rumbling .... and so one and so one. . What the hell?!
This way, even myself I can write a book of 1.000 pages easily! This is unbelievable, how respectless you treat the readers with this crap.
And the worst this time is that Milton has no role at all in the hole boring, tedious, bad written book, and there is no damned action in that wannabe Ex-Killer and Ex-SAS fiction novel!
Mark Dawson! You did not do your job but told us over and over again in this novel how bad Milton feels about his (oh, so horrible) past, you retold us stories from past books we already know, you puffed up your poor story with description fillers to an extreme and you did not give a shit if you therewith disappoint your readers.
I do not read one single sentence of you anymore. The only light in this dark tunnel of horrible writing is the narrator David Thorpe. He is the only one who has done a great job. As always.
December 27, 2020
4.5 stars
I have to say that I was just surprised when I looked down at the screen and realized that this was the 16th book in this series. I don't think I realized that there had been that many, and I have read them all. It has been a while though since I read the last book in the series, so it is always nice to come back and see what John Milton is up to. Dawson has a very unique writing style that is easy to read (or listen to) and has a way of keeping the reader entertained and somehow, also on the edge of your seat.
I alternated between reading and listening to the Audible version, and enjoyed the narrator (what can I say? I'm a sucker for that British accent). But, the actual plot kept my interest and I was invested until the very end. I don't know how he does it, but Dawson has somehow made Milton - who was a VERY successful assassin and in reality, a very dangerous man - somehow he has made him such a likeable character. John realizes that he has made mistakes in his life, mistakes that he cannot atone for, so he is determined to try to do good when he can. Somehow, John doing good always means that lots of people end up getting killed, but that's okay....they're usually bad people.
See. How does he do that? I adore Milton as a character, yet he is not a nice guy. Maybe that's why I like him so much. He is so very HUMAN. He admits his faults and knows his limitations. Honestly, if I'm being honest with myself, I think he is too hard on himself. Isn't that ironic?
Well, back to the book. Another winner. I looked up the series when I sat down to write this review and it looks like there are 2 more Milton books already in the que for 2021. Can't wait.
I have to say that I was just surprised when I looked down at the screen and realized that this was the 16th book in this series. I don't think I realized that there had been that many, and I have read them all. It has been a while though since I read the last book in the series, so it is always nice to come back and see what John Milton is up to. Dawson has a very unique writing style that is easy to read (or listen to) and has a way of keeping the reader entertained and somehow, also on the edge of your seat.
I alternated between reading and listening to the Audible version, and enjoyed the narrator (what can I say? I'm a sucker for that British accent). But, the actual plot kept my interest and I was invested until the very end. I don't know how he does it, but Dawson has somehow made Milton - who was a VERY successful assassin and in reality, a very dangerous man - somehow he has made him such a likeable character. John realizes that he has made mistakes in his life, mistakes that he cannot atone for, so he is determined to try to do good when he can. Somehow, John doing good always means that lots of people end up getting killed, but that's okay....they're usually bad people.
See. How does he do that? I adore Milton as a character, yet he is not a nice guy. Maybe that's why I like him so much. He is so very HUMAN. He admits his faults and knows his limitations. Honestly, if I'm being honest with myself, I think he is too hard on himself. Isn't that ironic?
Well, back to the book. Another winner. I looked up the series when I sat down to write this review and it looks like there are 2 more Milton books already in the que for 2021. Can't wait.
September 19, 2020
I am not one to read this genre of books, or anything remotely close to this type of book, surprising to say the least, once I got halfway through, I got into the grind of things, and the experience was better than I would have hoped for it being the first book in the whole mystery/crime/thriller genre.
I am not certain as to how to rate books such as these, but I will give it a try.
It took me a while to gather the main characters of this book, even then, more would be added. Although I had to try an wrap my head around all the names one used, all the ones who used more than one, the addition of quite a number of characters when necessary gave me a picture of the grand scheme of things and its importance.
The places where things took place, as well as how well thought out Milton’s plans were, gave this book a more atmospheric and intellectual tone. Especially with the jungle and the whole moving backwards through the chain deal.
The fighting scenes, especially the one towards the end of the book, the one with Milton and Ellie were really enjoyable and I managed to get really into it. I now want to read more books with a similar feel to them. I just don’t know which to choose, as this genre is out of my comfort zone.
-Kaisy
I am not certain as to how to rate books such as these, but I will give it a try.
It took me a while to gather the main characters of this book, even then, more would be added. Although I had to try an wrap my head around all the names one used, all the ones who used more than one, the addition of quite a number of characters when necessary gave me a picture of the grand scheme of things and its importance.
The places where things took place, as well as how well thought out Milton’s plans were, gave this book a more atmospheric and intellectual tone. Especially with the jungle and the whole moving backwards through the chain deal.
The fighting scenes, especially the one towards the end of the book, the one with Milton and Ellie were really enjoyable and I managed to get really into it. I now want to read more books with a similar feel to them. I just don’t know which to choose, as this genre is out of my comfort zone.
-Kaisy
January 18, 2021
When you are in the 16th book of a series, you're able to tie together threads from various storylines to create fantastic pressure and payoff. That's what happened for me in this particular installment of the John Milton storyline. While Mark Dawson always turns in fun reads for those of us who appreciate the spy genre, this particular book brings together some terrific storylines:
an FBI agent Milton had collaborated with in the past (and had a romantic interest in)
a drug cartel that had unwittingly taken advantage of a killing that Milton was party to
the reconstitution of the special assassination squad that Milton helped deconstruct
the constitution of a team that Milton uses for his projects
Against the backdrop (in this story) of the ongoing and useless "war on drugs" and in the change in Milton's storyline. He's no longer simply looking to "make up" for what he did in his past life through selfless acts of protection in the present, he seems to be recklessly confronting death - if I die, so be it. While I doubt that Dawson is going to kill off his most profitable character, I do appreciate that he's not content to simply let Milton keep being Milton, at least as we've known him over the past dozen or so installments. Job done, Mark. I'm re-engaged in the series after a few books on autopilot.
an FBI agent Milton had collaborated with in the past (and had a romantic interest in)
a drug cartel that had unwittingly taken advantage of a killing that Milton was party to
the reconstitution of the special assassination squad that Milton helped deconstruct
the constitution of a team that Milton uses for his projects
Against the backdrop (in this story) of the ongoing and useless "war on drugs" and in the change in Milton's storyline. He's no longer simply looking to "make up" for what he did in his past life through selfless acts of protection in the present, he seems to be recklessly confronting death - if I die, so be it. While I doubt that Dawson is going to kill off his most profitable character, I do appreciate that he's not content to simply let Milton keep being Milton, at least as we've known him over the past dozen or so installments. Job done, Mark. I'm re-engaged in the series after a few books on autopilot.
May 8, 2020
Old friends and new foes and Milton's mission for justice
After the events in Bright Lights, John Milton continues his mission for justice for his friend, Beau Baxter. He is accompanied by Ziggy and Hicks, his long-term collaborators and friends, and Chase Baxter, an unknown quantity but a man definitely looking for revenge. The cartel's leader has also attracted the attention of various organisations with varied agendas, none of them making it easy for Milton in his quest.
The action takes them from Holland to England to Columbia, with Milton relying on his team for intel and surveillance while he infiltrates the cartel solo. As always, the action is non-stop, the characters real, the violence bloody, and the ride thrilling.
Mark Dawson does not seem to have a bad book in him but this is one of his best. John Milton is by far my favourite book hero, a killer with a scarred body and a scarred heart, trying to cancel out some of the red in his ledger by righting one wrong at a time. Long may he continue.
After the events in Bright Lights, John Milton continues his mission for justice for his friend, Beau Baxter. He is accompanied by Ziggy and Hicks, his long-term collaborators and friends, and Chase Baxter, an unknown quantity but a man definitely looking for revenge. The cartel's leader has also attracted the attention of various organisations with varied agendas, none of them making it easy for Milton in his quest.
The action takes them from Holland to England to Columbia, with Milton relying on his team for intel and surveillance while he infiltrates the cartel solo. As always, the action is non-stop, the characters real, the violence bloody, and the ride thrilling.
Mark Dawson does not seem to have a bad book in him but this is one of his best. John Milton is by far my favourite book hero, a killer with a scarred body and a scarred heart, trying to cancel out some of the red in his ledger by righting one wrong at a time. Long may he continue.
August 30, 2025
Hicks & Ziggy are back, along with new team member Chase Baxter, to assist John as he takes on the drug cartel that murdered his friend. This time, he's not stopping with who pulled the trigger - he's going all the way to the top of the chain.
Ellie Flowers also returns for this one (The Sword of God) and she has some unfinished business of her own with John.
And, if that weren't enough, Group 15 is back in the mix under the leadership of a new 'Control'. I have my suspicions about where we headed with 'Control', so we'll see where the next few books take us.
Am I glad I read it - yes.
Was it a waste of my time - no.
Would I sit down and read it all over again - not really that kind of book - once you know how it ends, you know.
Would I read more by this author based on this book - yes.
Ellie Flowers also returns for this one (The Sword of God) and she has some unfinished business of her own with John.
And, if that weren't enough, Group 15 is back in the mix under the leadership of a new 'Control'. I have my suspicions about where we headed with 'Control', so we'll see where the next few books take us.
Am I glad I read it - yes.
Was it a waste of my time - no.
Would I sit down and read it all over again - not really that kind of book - once you know how it ends, you know.
Would I read more by this author based on this book - yes.
May 14, 2020
Milton's Back & in it Deep. So Deep, Control wants him Dead!
Dawson is back in too form. His John Milton series is some of his best work, that and the Beatrix Rose series. His recent departure into the PI world, not withstanding, Milton is a former #1 British Intelligence asset. Group 15 is their sanctioned arm of the people not spoken about in intelligence circles. They operate in the shadows, a job you're not expected to retire from voluntarily. Now the new head of their operations, known only as Control, wants him dead, long after even been given a formal pass for his help in routing out a crooked former Control by the last Control. Now the new Control may even be worse and she wants Milton eliminated!
Dawson is back in too form. His John Milton series is some of his best work, that and the Beatrix Rose series. His recent departure into the PI world, not withstanding, Milton is a former #1 British Intelligence asset. Group 15 is their sanctioned arm of the people not spoken about in intelligence circles. They operate in the shadows, a job you're not expected to retire from voluntarily. Now the new head of their operations, known only as Control, wants him dead, long after even been given a formal pass for his help in routing out a crooked former Control by the last Control. Now the new Control may even be worse and she wants Milton eliminated!
June 3, 2020
A Page Turner For Sure
John Milton resumes his fight to get ‘justice’ after the cartel killed his friend. Mr. Dawson did a great job with this novel and you can actually read it without the previous book...but to get the full gist of the story, you really should read The previous novel “Bright Lights”. I typically do audio books because it gives my eyes time to rest - after spending most of the day on a computer. But, I couldn’t wait! So I read the darn book. Nonstop!! I will still get the audio companion as I have for all of Mark Dawson books. I tend to listen to this series over and over! I see Killa City is already being advertised on Amazon. Looking forward to it! I recommend this book and all others written by Mark Dawson!! He’s an awesome writer.
John Milton resumes his fight to get ‘justice’ after the cartel killed his friend. Mr. Dawson did a great job with this novel and you can actually read it without the previous book...but to get the full gist of the story, you really should read The previous novel “Bright Lights”. I typically do audio books because it gives my eyes time to rest - after spending most of the day on a computer. But, I couldn’t wait! So I read the darn book. Nonstop!! I will still get the audio companion as I have for all of Mark Dawson books. I tend to listen to this series over and over! I see Killa City is already being advertised on Amazon. Looking forward to it! I recommend this book and all others written by Mark Dawson!! He’s an awesome writer.
January 25, 2023
Wow, really convoluted tale desperate to keep side characters in tow when Milton will readily admit he is better off like the Gray man, alone. Maybe it was just so narrator can try out his southern accent, who knows but vengeance cowboy really had no place in this one (nice Beau was avenged just the same). And Ellie dragged up from about 10 books ago in a thrilling adventure through the woods and probably the last time Milton got lucky. I swear he wrote her in just to get that face slap in, and the rest was a stretch. Tired of gangsters, crime bosses and all things Mexican cartel...so over played. Try visiting Canada or Baltic countries, the won't find you there and you can have a life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2020
A new Milton book to read, and it's been a while in coming, but it is well worth the wait. Milton wants revenge, and is willing to play the long game to get it. He recruits some old "friends" to help and starts his plan. An unplanned trip to Columbia, has him going against Group 15 operators and he knows he's in serious trouble this time. As with all Milton novels, suspense and action will keep you reading much longer then you intended. Any yet when you finish it, you'll think I've finished it already. Another awesome read. I'm definitely looking forward to the next one.
May 17, 2020
Welcoming Back Mr. Milton
Back indeed. Milton and his “crew” fear no one. Throw him into a boiling pot of water and he makes a cup of tea.
Good story line with usual ending and a “tease” for the next book. My biggest question is whether or not he’ll actually get to keep a relationship longer than the 12-step program.
In this novel we get to see how the drug trade actually operates, starting with the raw product. Without really knowing, I’m relying on Mr. Dawson’s usual research. It was interesting.
John M
Back indeed. Milton and his “crew” fear no one. Throw him into a boiling pot of water and he makes a cup of tea.
Good story line with usual ending and a “tease” for the next book. My biggest question is whether or not he’ll actually get to keep a relationship longer than the 12-step program.
In this novel we get to see how the drug trade actually operates, starting with the raw product. Without really knowing, I’m relying on Mr. Dawson’s usual research. It was interesting.
John M
May 19, 2020
Another 5 star read.
Another great read from Mark Dawson. John Milton out to avenge the death of a friend the story flits from country to country and involved agents from various countries. At times it's hard to keep pace with who are the good guys and who are the baddies.
A few moments where you worry about Milton and if he can keep alive.
The ending leaves the reader wondering how things will develop in the future now that The Group has reformed and he has become a hunted man again.
Another great read from Mark Dawson. John Milton out to avenge the death of a friend the story flits from country to country and involved agents from various countries. At times it's hard to keep pace with who are the good guys and who are the baddies.
A few moments where you worry about Milton and if he can keep alive.
The ending leaves the reader wondering how things will develop in the future now that The Group has reformed and he has become a hunted man again.
June 29, 2020
First Read by Mark Dawson: #1!
I love it when l find a new author who writes my kind of book! I tend to read all books they have written. Some have been a challenge and it looks like Mark will be one of those. I enjoyed the suspenseful ride with so many characters as good and bad guys and gals. John Milton fits the profile of my kind of main character: smooth actor, physically and mentally tough, so far they haven't killed him off. You have to read one of Mark's books to meet this character. Well done Mark Dawson!
I love it when l find a new author who writes my kind of book! I tend to read all books they have written. Some have been a challenge and it looks like Mark will be one of those. I enjoyed the suspenseful ride with so many characters as good and bad guys and gals. John Milton fits the profile of my kind of main character: smooth actor, physically and mentally tough, so far they haven't killed him off. You have to read one of Mark's books to meet this character. Well done Mark Dawson!
July 1, 2020
Still a good series
I like this series and I am happy we are watching back to the earlier storyline. I got used to reading the bundles and forgot that usually the books get completed in the next one... So now I think I'll simply read the beginning of #17 and wait until the series ends to finish it. I do not like these cliffs.
That said, books 15 & 16 are one very long story with a cliffhanger . I think we get a feel like we could easily just read 1-2, the one where hicks gets introduced and then jump into 15-16 and beyond.
I am looking forward to the next.
I like this series and I am happy we are watching back to the earlier storyline. I got used to reading the bundles and forgot that usually the books get completed in the next one... So now I think I'll simply read the beginning of #17 and wait until the series ends to finish it. I do not like these cliffs.
That said, books 15 & 16 are one very long story with a cliffhanger . I think we get a feel like we could easily just read 1-2, the one where hicks gets introduced and then jump into 15-16 and beyond.
I am looking forward to the next.
May 23, 2021
The John Milton series keeps getting better.
Fast paced thriller that weaves in details of drug cartels, growing and making cocaine...I don't want to know how Mr. Dawson acquired the inside info, but I found myself holding my breath in the jungles of Columbia.
I enjoyed the bond between Milton, Hicks, and Chase and Ziggy is always a delight when he shows up, and the reason behind that bond and willingness to work together. It never ceases to amaze me how Milton seems to get himself in hot water while trying to redeem himself.
Another enjoyable read from Mark Dawson.
Fast paced thriller that weaves in details of drug cartels, growing and making cocaine...I don't want to know how Mr. Dawson acquired the inside info, but I found myself holding my breath in the jungles of Columbia.
I enjoyed the bond between Milton, Hicks, and Chase and Ziggy is always a delight when he shows up, and the reason behind that bond and willingness to work together. It never ceases to amaze me how Milton seems to get himself in hot water while trying to redeem himself.
Another enjoyable read from Mark Dawson.
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