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Minor Assassin

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Jon’s carefree life in the suburbs of Las Vegas is turned upside down by a horrific crime, but he’s only eight years old -- how can a kid fight back and hope to win?

Taken in by mysterious strangers, Jon starts a new life in a secluded village, but can he trust them to help him do what needs to be done? When Jon learns what really happened back home, a terrible resolve hardens inside him.

Will he ever be able to deliver his retribution? Transformation -- when it comes -- is irrevocable. Will he find his enemy? And can he survive long enough to reunite with what is left of his family?

Features Spy tech, intense martial arts, and weaponry

275 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 13, 2020

2 people are currently reading
4 people want to read

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Jackiem Joyner

5 books2 followers

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5 stars
8 (72%)
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2 (18%)
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1 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Profile Image for Melina Lobo.
834 reviews99 followers
January 6, 2023
Minor Assassin is a fictional action novel by Jackiem Joyner with spy tech, intense martial arts, and weaponry. 

We get to witness Jon's story from the beginning, so we get to experience his pain and tragic loss that led him on the path that he is now on. We see how his personality shifts after the tragic event, and while it might be hard to comprehend, he shifts from this sweet little boy to something much more complex than expected (with a little help from his "acquaintances," of course).

While Jon is the main protagonist of the story, we also view the plot developing from Jayla's perspective (Jon's older sister) as well as a detective who's trying to piece together the puzzle of a complicated case. Because of this multi-perspective view of the story, it's a lot more interesting to watch the struggles they face individually while all the pieces slowly fall into place. 

Jon's character arc is one that had the most diverse shift, and while it was a bit shocking, it's the plot of the book that takes the cake because it's fast-paced, action-packed, and engaging. It reads like a movie because of its vivid storyline, which still holds some semblance of reality. The writing style of the book is fluid, and because of that, you can finish the novel in a day.

Overall, it's a great book that's perfect for those who love a good spy and action novel.

8/10
Profile Image for Julio Carlos.
Author 7 books8 followers
November 20, 2021
This book starts off with heavy scenes. I mean… HEAVY. No mercy for the main character, Jon, as he is forced to see his family being killed in front of his eyes, by a Chinese gang leader, inside his house after his parents returned home from a work assignment gone right, or wrong. After the cruel scenes, the trauma and the “helping escort” out to safety, there was only one path for Jon as an 8 year old: Vengeance. – And 20$ bills –

Jackiem Joyner doesn’t hold back in the descriptions of the graphic scenes of this action-packed book, be it in the fight scenes or in emotionally charged situations. The bloody and gruesome images that he is “forced” to write in order to send his message across and/or give a more substantial, impactful atmosphere to the book , specially when it comes to the human-trafficking, the killing and kidnaping of young girls, is one of the things that will mark every reader of this book. This book will make a difference in the world.

We loved the original plot idea, a kid-assassin on a mission to avenge his family, and apparently all the other characters, including our well written cops that partake in much of the action and make a great contribution to this story, are as surprised as readers will be with the whole concept of a child assassin, although, we readers have a much easier time adjusting towards this whole concept.

The reactions of Jon, both as he fights and how he perceives things are typical to an 8 year old and it makes the story so much believable, love it! Throughout most of the book, you feel like you are reading about a kid, and the narrator is really the kid that our MC is presented to be.

The narrative isn’t “stylish”at all, there’s no… “flash” or “glam” to it, but THAT helps you keep focused and intensely anxious about what’s going to happen next, given that this is a thriller with action. We love how the chapters progress in this book, it’s something very cool, they start, what needs to be told is told and they end, making the story move along. No ramble. No unnecessary clutter. No filler. THAT’s how you do it, and that’s how you keep readers TOTALLY engaged with your book. VERY NICE!


The mystery that the style of narrative of Jackiem Joyner forces into the book is palpable. You only know what you are told, without any room for imagination. The author keeps total control of the book, and the reader is a passenger that can only look in front, hahahahaha, it’s so cool because you soon realize that you can just sit back, read, relax and enjoy this wild ride until the end, knowing that you are in good and experienced hands.

This book brings into context, with the appropriate seriousness, the problem of human trafficking around the world, and specially in the United States, and involves our main characters in the subject in order to drive the message home. The way Jackiem Joyner puts it, one cannot ignore or look away, and can feel the heavy hand of the world we live in, driving in the reader, the desire of doing something about it. That’s how you do it.

Another aspect that the author managed very well was the passage of time, on this book. A great example of this can be noticed in the training of Jon and the evolution of his abilities that is well detailed and it accomplishes the task of letting the reader have the sense that a lot of time has passed without being extremely brief or extensively long about it.


The fact that the main character, even although after all he went through, still had his flaws and wasn’t super-human or invincible was a really cool touch from the author, and that made the fight scenes realistic, and talking about fight scenes, there are lots to enjoy in this novel that gives out even more than it promises, so if you like action, this is definitely a book you should be reading.

This is one of those novels that are written with simplicity of plot, narrative and style and you we can do is wonder with amazement at the final result of it. A novel that you can read out in one sitting, given the very fast-paced and objective narrative that cuts to the chase, quite literally, as you will see. Great story.

Pros:
EXCELLENT narrative. Swift, to the point, heavy, gripping!
EXCELLENT way to stamp a much needed message to readers of a reality that is much ignored, excellent example of the use of writing right here, *claps*
The pace is incredible and ON POINT, for an action thriller novel. LOVE IT
Great fighting scenes and action scenes
The emotional display of characters in their roles is a detail that wasn’t missed by our eye. Very well done. Subtle, but it was there, always present
The fact that most of the MCs were mostly Black/Chinese/Japanese/Indian is totally a plus
The research put into the book was noticeable, great job by Jackiem Joyner
A great read in all overall senses
Cons:
None.

Favourite Characters: June and Brickman
Cover Score: 9.0/10
Book Score: 8.7/10

Original Review @ - https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
Profile Image for Scribble's Worth Book Reviews.
229 reviews16 followers
August 28, 2023
This book starts off with heavy scenes. I mean… HEAVY. No mercy for the main character, Jon, as he is forced to see his family being killed in front of his eyes, by a Chinese gang leader, inside his house after his parents returned home from a work assignment gone right, or wrong. After the cruel scenes, the trauma and the “helping escort” out to safety, there was only one path for Jon as an 8 year old: Vengeance. – And 20$ bills –

Jackiem Joyner doesn’t hold back in the descriptions of the graphic scenes of this action-packed book, be it in the fight scenes or in emotionally charged situations. The bloody and gruesome images that he is “forced” to write in order to send his message across and/or give a more substantial, impactful atmosphere to the book , specially when it comes to the human-trafficking, the killing and kidnaping of young girls, is one of the things that will mark every reader of this book. This book will make a difference in the world.

We loved the original plot idea, a kid-assassin on a mission to avenge his family, and apparently all the other characters, including our well written cops that partake in much of the action and make a great contribution to this story, are as surprised as readers will be with the whole concept of a child assassin, although, we readers have a much easier time adjusting towards this whole concept.

The reactions of Jon, both as he fights and how he perceives things are typical to an 8 year old and it makes the story so much believable, love it! Throughout most of the book, you feel like you are reading about a kid, and the narrator is really the kid that our MC is presented to be.

The narrative isn’t “stylish”at all, there’s no… “flash” or “glam” to it, but THAT helps you keep focused and intensely anxious about what’s going to happen next, given that this is a thriller with action. We love how the chapters progress in this book, it’s something very cool, they start, what needs to be told is told and they end, making the story move along. No ramble. No unnecessary clutter. No filler. THAT’s how you do it, and that’s how you keep readers TOTALLY engaged with your book. VERY NICE!


The mystery that the style of narrative of Jackiem Joyner forces into the book is palpable. You only know what you are told, without any room for imagination. The author keeps total control of the book, and the reader is a passenger that can only look in front, hahahahaha, it’s so cool because you soon realize that you can just sit back, read, relax and enjoy this wild ride until the end, knowing that you are in good and experienced hands.

This book brings into context, with the appropriate seriousness, the problem of human trafficking around the world, and specially in the United States, and involves our main characters in the subject in order to drive the message home. The way Jackiem Joyner puts it, one cannot ignore or look away, and can feel the heavy hand of the world we live in, driving in the reader, the desire of doing something about it. That’s how you do it.

Another aspect that the author managed very well was the passage of time, on this book. A great example of this can be noticed in the training of Jon and the evolution of his abilities that is well detailed and it accomplishes the task of letting the reader have the sense that a lot of time has passed without being extremely brief or extensively long about it.


The fact that the main character, even although after all he went through, still had his flaws and wasn’t super-human or invincible was a really cool touch from the author, and that made the fight scenes realistic, and talking about fight scenes, there are lots to enjoy in this novel that gives out even more than it promises, so if you like action, this is definitely a book you should be reading.

This is one of those novels that are written with simplicity of plot, narrative and style and you we can do is wonder with amazement at the final result of it. A novel that you can read out in one sitting, given the very fast-paced and objective narrative that cuts to the chase, quite literally, as you will see. Great story.

Pros:
EXCELLENT narrative. Swift, to the point, heavy, gripping!
EXCELLENT way to stamp a much needed message to readers of a reality that is much ignored, excellent example of the use of writing right here, *claps*
The pace is incredible and ON POINT, for an action thriller novel. LOVE IT
Great fighting scenes and action scenes
The emotional display of characters in their roles is a detail that wasn’t missed by our eye. Very well done. Subtle, but it was there, always present
The fact that most of the MCs were mostly Black/Chinese/Japanese/Indian is totally a plus
The research put into the book was noticeable, great job by Jackiem Joyner
A great read in all overall senses

Cons:
None.

Favourite Characters: June and Brickman
Cover Score: 9.0/10
Book Score: 8.7/10
Profile Image for Mercy N.
82 reviews5 followers
January 17, 2024
The Minor Assassin, a 293-page novel by Jackiem Joyner, is a thriller featuring cutting-edge spy technology, mastered martial arts, and weaponry. The author unveiled the main plot of the novel by portraying the heartbreaking scene of Jon witnessing the abrupt end of his parents’ lives and taking away of his only sister, Jayla. It was indeed a life-changing experience for Jon, who transformed from an 8-year-old kid with his love for toys and video games to a kid-assassin, avenging his family.

The book takes its readers on an adventurous journey of self-growth and development, as Jon must take over the mantle from his late parents, who worked for a man, Mr. Yamamoto, the owner of the Yamamoto Foundation, where he could risk it all, including his life, to fight against a notorious human-trafficking organisation that had his sister and other young girls in captivity. Thus, the author brings into context the problem of human trafficking and the pain it leaves on the loved ones of those captured.

Interestingly, the author depicted different characters in the novel who had similar agendas but distinct ways of achieving them. We could see the Las Vegas detectives who were determined to put an end to the notorious crime through legal measures and the character of Jon, whose intense brutality showed no mercy for his enemies. These chaotic scenes kept the readers at the edge of their seats. Will taking the law into one's own hands prevail over justice, or can the two co-exist?

The novel underwent a detailed passage of time of five years involving the intense training of Jon in martial arts and advanced technology, which was neither too long nor too short. It also showcased powerful character development and almost cinematic-level action and adventure. Furthermore, the author utilised powerful imagery to bring Jon’s story to life as the readers navigated through every emotion, no matter how subtle. He was neither invisible nor a superhuman, as the reactions of Jon as he fights and how he perceives things were typical of that of a kid and made the story believable. Thus, the author had total control of the book as there was an excellent narrative, simplicity of plot, and style, with gripping attention left on the readers.

Despite its incredible writing style, the novel is not without flaws. There were grammatical errors and improper construction of sentences observed. However, the book can still be said to have been professionally edited. Therefore, I rate the book five out of five stars because it carried a powerful message well executed and its description style was top-notch. In conclusion, this novel is recommended to readers who like action, thrilling adventures, and the use of spy technology.
Profile Image for Grady.
Author 51 books1,827 followers
November 5, 2021
‘Vengeance consumed my heart. And I was angry’ – a work from a major player!

California author Jackiem Joyner, also widely popular as Lil Man Soul, a highly awarded and respected saxophonist/flutist/music producer, is becoming equally well known for his gifts as an author of science fiction and thrillers. His novels to date - ZARYA, TIMELAB EPISODE 1 and now MINOR ASSASSIN. In addition to his novels, Joyner has authored THE ART OF MAKING MONEY WITH MUSIC

Joyner’s ability to create credible character to whom the reader can relate assures that the dark tonality of the story will be close to believable! To wit, ‘I stood against the window pane staring down at a quiet, cold night in Vegas. It all hit me at one. All the blood, all the death. I couldn’t believe what I had done. Was it even worth it? Would I ever get a chance to be a normal kid? It wasn’t far to Henderson, but his old life was a million miles away. He wasn’t eight anymore. His sister wasn’t eleven. They weren’t the happy, well-off African-American family living comfortably in the suburbs. Not for five long years. Twenty-dollar bills stained with blood ay scattered on one of the beds in this expensive suite…Another useless room with an empty bed and large flat-screen TV. A fifty-fourth floor suite at the Peach Tree Hotel and Casino. A city full of indulgences. As long as you had the money. I shook my head. After the time I spent in Japan, I could see what a spoiled country this was…’

The casual writing style is immediately inviting, and the story progresses as the synopsis outlines – ‘Jon’s carefree life in the suburbs of Las Vegas is turned upside down by a horrific crime, but he’s only eight years old -- how can a kid fight back and hope to win? Taken in by mysterious strangers, Jon starts a new life in a secluded village, but can he trust them to help him do what needs to be done? When Jon learns what really happened back home, a terrible resolve hardens inside him. Will he ever be able to deliver his retribution? Transformation -- when it comes -- is irrevocable. Will he find his enemy? And can he survive long enough to reunite with what is left of his family?’

Completing this novel, the first word that comes to mind is Bravo! Jackiem Joyner is a solid talent and his kudos for his books likely will rise to the level of the applause for his music making! Very highly recommended.
410 reviews48 followers
December 12, 2023
Book Review
My Ratings - 4.8/5

In Jackiem Joyner's "Minor Assassin," readers are plunged into a riveting narrative that begins with eight-year-old Jon's life being shattered by a brutal crime in the suburbs of Las Vegas. The story unfolds as Jon is taken in by mysterious strangers from Japan, propelling him into a new life in a secluded village where he must question everything he once knew.

The heart of the tale revolves around Jon's journey as he grows older, armed with cutting-edge spy technology, mastered martial arts, and a determination for justice. The author weaves a compelling narrative that explores Jon's transformation from a victim to a fierce avenger, with each step in his quest for retribution raising the stakes and intensifying the consequences.

Joyner skillfully navigates the complexities of Jon's character, creating a protagonist shaped by a relentless pursuit of truth and justice. As Jon uncovers the secrets of his past, readers are taken on a gripping ride filled with danger, suspense, and the constant threat of peril at every turn.

"Minor Assassin" is not merely a tale of vengeance; it's a story of resilience, survival, and the irrevocable transformation of a young boy thrust into an unfamiliar and dangerous world. Joyner's narrative prowess keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each twist and turn in Jon's quest.

As Jon fights not only to deliver justice but also to reunite with his family, the novel explores themes of determination, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of a minor turned assassin. For those seeking a thrilling blend of action, suspense, and a protagonist's journey of self-discovery, "Minor Assassin" delivers a compelling and immersive experience from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Anthony.
Author 29 books201 followers
February 21, 2021
The Review

A powerful blend of action, vengeance, and family, author Jackiem Joyner does a fantastic job of showcasing powerful character development and almost cinematic level action and adventure. The novel takes the classic vengeance story to new heights, exploring what happens when a young boy must quickly grow up faster than he should, and instead become a weapon to take out his enemies.

The unique part of protagonist Jon’s story is the fact that he experiences both painful loss and a mission to save the only family he has left, giving him a powerful motivation to not only endure the training he is introduced to but to put himself in danger to save the lives of the innocent. The author does a great job of utilizing powerful imagery to bring Jon’s story to life, creating vivid scenes of action and suspense throughout the narrative. From Jon’s emotional and bloody journey to his sister Jayna’s fight for survival and a detective’s mission to uncover the truth, the author has crafted a powerful new adventure like no other.

The Verdict

The Punisher meets Taken and Kick-Ass in author Jackiem Joyner’s bloody, action-fueled, and evenly-paced thriller “Minor Assassins”. The novel’s fast-paced character development and expert blending of imagery make this a memorable read, filled with gritty fight scenes, emotional scenes as Jon must grow up in the face of tragedy, and a heart-racing finale that will leave readers on the edge of their seat. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
105 reviews1 follower
February 3, 2022
Little Jon had experienced things that no child at the age of 8 had ever experienced.

Jon, Jayla, and their parents were a happy family and loved being together in their perfect family but the nightmare man had changed their life forever. Little Jon knew that one day he would kill this man to death who had brought so much pain to his family. At his age he just knew that bad people don’t carry candy bars in their purse but he was too young to understand good or bad...

How Jon fights back his misery is narrated like a visual imaginary in this story, so real and so imaginable. I felt the pain, I felt the action and I felt sympathetic. There is an Asian touch to the book which made me feel closer to it. We talk about many powerful survival stories and this being one of the best amongst it. There is suspense, drama, thriller, action and an emotional journey. The characters are strong and beautifully crafted.

Jackie Joyner has done a fantastic job of showcasing powerful character development and a 100% cinematic level action and escapade. His story has delivered an action packed story from the first to the very last page and I really enjoyed and got clinged to it.
Profile Image for Danielle Urban.
Author 12 books167 followers
February 4, 2023
Minor Assassin by Jackiem Joyner is a great book on espionage. The main character is a little boy who has his life changed forever. His whole demeanor changes with it. For me, this book about an eight-year-old is too young of a start. Most fiction tales start with at least age twelve. Bits of this book reminds me of The Karate Kid. The plot itself is thrilling. It has plenty of action and suspense to keep readers like me glued into the book. I love stories that have a deep yet emotional journey like this one did. Overall, great characterization and scenes!

I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
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