Seduced by an insatiable urge to escape reality, North Texas teens are falling prey to the one weakness parents fear most—the use of illicit drugs. And North Texas is just the tip of the iceberg. With his city under siege by a series of drug deaths and a kidnapping, recently hired newspaper publisher Michael Doyle and those closest to him are sucked into a twister so toxic and destructive, no one will be the same in its wake.
From the jagged mountains and alluring beaches of Mexico to the suburban concrete jungle in North Texas, Michael defends an entire drug-ravaged generation against ruthless killers who attack on every front possible. And just when you think the dragon has been slayed, a vile act of cruelty threatens to shred his own family.
LETHAL GREED can be read as a stand-alone novel, or as part of the Greed Series (#2).
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author, #2 bestselling author on Barnes and Noble, and a Readers' Favorite Gold Medal winner.
John W. Mefford has been writing his debut novel since he first entered the work force almost thirty years ago, although he never put words on paper until 2009. Once he started writing, however, he couldn't stop. Many readers ask John from where he gets his ideas. Well, he's a veteran of the corporate rat-race, a former journalist, and he's always been an astute observer of human and social behavior. On top of that, he's really good at embellishing.
A member of International Thriller Writers, John writes novels full of electrifying suspense -- the same types of books he has loved to read since before he could shave.
A suspense thriller about drugs infiltrating a small town, and the many horrors that arise when kids, looking for that something to take their mind off of their small lives, take the drug...Expecting to feel so good...But some find death instead...A parents' worst nightmare, many disbelieving that Their kids would take Anything...From an author who has an amazing ability to create life-like characters we all connect with immediately, comes a story of greed..By a Mother, by low-life folk in a land far away...All connecting to make drugs easily available for all...Without worrying about the consequences their actions allow to happen... Michael keeps working at the paper, but when a family friend has a harrowing tale from Mexico, and has returned with Out his wife, he makes a decision that brings the life and death of the drug scene into his families' life...When a writer at his paper finds his daughter at a hospital,fighting for her life, Michael tries to push his writing team to get to the bottom of it all... A quick moving thriller that will hold your attention from the start through every twist and turn until the end you never saw coming!! I received an ARC from the author, I offer you my honest thoughts and feelings in this review. Everyone should read this story, as drugs are everywhere in all our communities today!
Having kids and bringing them up to be healthy and productive adults is a hard task but when your kids are mixed up in illicit drugs what are you to do? Worst by helping them get out of this predicament you decide to go after the shady characters that got them hooked.... well read “Lethal Greed” and you may find out....enjoy.
In a web of mystery, “Lethal Greed”, brings a city under siege with drug deaths and kidnapping. Michael Doyle (the protagonist) and those closest to him are sucked into a twister so destructive no one will be the same at the end. Greed, is the driving force in this action packed story where we find Michael immersed in a drama involving his friend Arthur whose wife has been kidnapped and ransomed. With partying young adults shooting up, sniffing or snorting drugs....some to their death....Michael had to take on the drug dealers to protect the vulnerable but dealing with the Drug Cartel is a whole other ball game.
I had a bit of trouble getting into it at first it took some time before I noticed I was hooked and couldn’t let go. Slow paced at first then the action and suspense took off and kept a steady tempo till the very last page. Even with all the action this is an easy plot to follow and one that will make you think. Mr. Mefford choice of subject definitely is an eye opener....although not surprising. Partying in Puerto Vallarta during Spring break wow the kids know how to give themselves a good time...or a fatal one...
I like the characters in this book, most are recurring one from book #1 but no fear if you haven’t read “Fatal Greed” this story can be read on its own.
In a few words:
“Lethal Greed” brings a thought provoking subject to the forefront, not only about greed but also about murder, betrayal and the terrible curse of drug addiction.
Once again, the author continues the Greed Thriller series with a great second book. The story continues with Michael Doyle not just a journalist but a want to be detective good guy. As with all of the author’s work, the character’s are all distinctly different but so believable. There is always a little humor in the main character. This book is no different. Continuing with a murder in the last book, North Texas has a new monster in town and that is drugs. For Michael, the teen overdoses in the area and the kidnap of his friend's wife makes him want to get to the bottom of it. He, along with his colleagues, decide to find out exactly who is killing the teens and get their friend's wife back. Besides it would make a great article for the paper. They travel into Mexico and not a minute is without an adventure. What they see in Mexico is not what was expected but they needed to get to the bottom of what was going on. They have a young intern willing to play the part of a high school student to see their side of what was going on. She watched as students got drunk and did illegal drugs as if it was nothing….just a party. Michael, Andi and the rest of the team go through a lot to get to the what was happening back home while they are running for their lives in Mexico. A lot of mystery, suspense and thrill. Great book!
As drugs run rampant in our country, it was with some pleasure that I read Lethal Greed, knowing someone is out there, (Author John W. Mefford), and through a great style of writing, is bringing attention to the problem through a work of fiction, which brings hope that many will learn by this story, and less young people will be snared in the wickedness and death that is brought about by the demand of drugs. Very well written plot by a very skilled writer, and everyone plus all parents need to read this book and although fiction, a very real view of the ugly underbelly of a drug infested culture that threatens our children. The plot was a wild ride and held me breathless at times. Definitely recommend this book for young adults and parents and concerned citizens as well. “Save the children.....become aware”.
This is the 2nd book in another outstanding series by John Mefford. What would you do if you were faced with the opportunity to make more money than you could ever spend. Would you grab the chance, regardless of the consequences? This story line brings out the worst in people and what they will do for money. Mefford dissects the cartel drug trade with his usual cast of fully fleshed out characters and circumstances. You feel like you are right in the middle of the world he has created. Mefford’s books are always page turners and are full of lots of twists and turns. This book and series is no exception. This is a book you will not easily put down. I truly loved it and highly recommend this book and the entire series. Come and join the excitement! You won’t be sorry!
( Format : ebook ) ".It's like a pandemic..." When the daughter of a lead reporter on the Times Herald becomes the fourth teenager in three months to die of a drugs overdose, Michael, the co publisher, decides to tackle the problem head on through his paper. But his partner and friend has other problems: his wife, Trudi, has been kidnapped and the ransom demands were decidedly bizar. Once again, Mr.Mefford has gifted his readers with a book that is not only exciting, with well formed characters, but also gives a glimpse into the depths of tragedy of the drugs world. His books are always a good read, and this, the second in his Greed series, promises well for those other books still to come. Recommended.
This is shaping up to be a fantastic series. Michael has a new job at the newspaper. The owners wife is kidnapped while in Mexico. There seems to an increase in drug overdoses in the community., including the daughter of one of the paper's reporters. Marisa 's mom drops a bombshell. This is a very fast paced read that delves into the scary world of drugs and how they impact our teenagers. John Mefford does a fantastic job of telling this very scary story. While it is a work of fiction it will resonate with many parents.
This time, Michael Doyle not only investigates a series of HS drug overdoses, but also becomes involved in resolving a Cartel kidnapping plot against his employer. Interesting characters and plenty of action leading to a nail biting climax. I'm looking forward to the next Greed thriller. Highly recommended.
Teens dying of drug overdoses, kidnappings, ruthless cartels—just a few of what’s happening in this book. The characters are so interesting. So much going on that I could not stop reading. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and easily give it 5+ stars.
I was lucky enough to have gotten a ARC copy of this book from the author. I am volunteering to leave this review. Fantastic book plenty of twist and turns that will keep you guessing.
his book moved at a new pace for this writer but the subject is one that shouldn't be rushed. I liked the way the subject was handled, and could feel the trauma the characters were experiencing. The unexpected twists and the outcomes were handled well. Looking forward to reading more of this series
Lethal Greed by John W. Mefford is a 2014 publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Once more the author uses greed, avarice, as the drive at the very heart of the actions which leads to the senseless deaths of young people who have not even started their lives yet and which will lead to much more heartache and broken lives before we are finished with our tale.
Michael and Marisa have tied the knot and Micheal is firmly ensconced in his new job working for the local newspaper. He quickly finds himself immersed in the drama unfolding with his friend Arthur whose wife has been kidnapped and is being held captive as well as the string of drug related deaths of young adults in their city. Marisa's mother, who is from San Antonio has also popped in for a visit.
I really enjoyed the characters in the first book and was looking forward to touching base with them again. The case involving Arthur and his wife Trudy will occupy most of Micheal's time and energy as he travels back to Puerto Vallarta, to rescue Trudy. But, there is also a new member to his staff, a young girl who has agreed to work undercover in order to bust the drug ring responsible for the heartbreaking overdoses, plus trouble in Marisa's personal family life also ties into the fray making for some really tense and action packed scenes. The cautionary tale that warns against easy money and the dangers of drugs is an old one. It never fails to amaze how many people still fall under the spell of big money, somehow filing away the fact they are ruining countless lives by supplying drugs. The addiction to drugs is still very prevalent and knows no boundaries when it comes to class or money. Very good, otherwise law abiding citizens with stable, loving home lives can become addicted to illegal drugs just like anyone else. This story is a fine expose' of just that. No, it doesn't become preachy or anything but there were some ironical moments between Michael and Marisa, each affected personally in one way or the other. However, some of these more poignant moments might fly under the radar as most readers will become caught up in the action and suspense elements in the story. The first chapter sets the pace and the action only slows down briefly here and there. The only complaint I had was the plausibility in some areas. I have said this countless times about thrillers.. I give this genre lots of leeway in that area, but I also like it to stay in a believable range. At times I felt things were about to get out of hand in that area. Thankfully, the story righted itself and continued on a more even pace. There are some whopping emotional punches thrown out there and again the victims in this deadly game are many. Michael and Marisa seem like survivors to me and despite the differences in their upbringing, their lives are meshed together and I have the feeling they will work through all this and come out stronger in the end. Over all this one is a 3.5 rounded to 4
Favorite Quotes "Hey, baby." I tossed my keys in the bowl on the entry table. Marisa came up and gave me a big smooch. I held on longer than usual, appreciating her touch and her lips, as the news about Arthur's wife lingered in the back of my mind. I asked Marisa to sit on our old plaid couch, and I explained the bizarre, agonizing story from our friend. A worried crease formed between her watery eyes. "My God, Michael, what can we do to help? I'm really afraid for her, and I'm sure Arthur is a wreck, especially since he has no way of contacting her." Marisa ran her fingers through her thick locks of highlighted curls. "You should have seen Stu and his family today. They were devastated. I think they believed Courtney was just like any other teenager, going through regular ups and downs, dating and maybe experimenting a bit. But in their worst nightmares they never imagined she could be drugged up and discarded." A lump formed in my throat as I recalled the depressing scene. "Dear God, you're alive, you're alive!" Arthur said over and over again, holding Trudy's face and her naked body. She tried to speak, but her sobbing interrupted any possible verbal response. Distracted momentarily by the unforgettable reunion, I felt something hitting my knee. Francisco was moving his arm. Arthur still had water left in his bottle, so we poured it into Francisco's mouth. He became more lucid then held his hand up to his head. I hadn't noticed the bleeding until then. "Did you get shot in the head, Francisco?" I asked. "I think it just grazed me, unless you see a bigger hole than I feel," he said sarcastically. I looked back at Arthur, and the three of us let out grateful sighs amidst half smiles. "Did you rescue Trudy?" "No, Francisco, you did. You saved all of our lives." Trudy buried her head in Arthur's chest, her emotions gushing from infinite relief.
This book was given in exchange for an honest review. This is the second book in the series. As with first one you are taken by surprise. This story is about parent’s worst fears. DRUGS and their children. In this North Texas town illicit drugs have been taking lives of their children. It wasn’t until Michael Doyle takes on the drug dealers and kidnappers to protect and defend the town and friends. But will he be too late to save his own family? Or will the drugs take over the whole town? Only by reading this story will you find out.
This story is a fast paced story that you start reading and don’t want to put it down. The author has made an exciting and compelling story showing that greed can take many forms. Each of these stories in this series can and do stand alone. The author has done a great job of developing the each and every character in this book. That is plenty of greed, kidnapping, murder, suspense, and twists and turns. From the first page to the last one you will not be disappointed.
Greed takes many forms. In this fast moving story which revolves around drugs and the cartels it clearly illustrates what can happen when drugs overtake a small town. Teenagers from the local school are dying from over doses. When the daughter of one of the writers at the local newspaper dies it is decided by the others to get to the bottom of this and find the people responsible for handing out the drugs. Andi, a young intern at the paper volunteers to go back as a student to try and discover what exactly is going on. Meanwhile one of Michael's best friends and mentor's wife is kidnapped for ransom where they were vacationing in Mexico, he has promised to help him get his wife back. Michael's wifes mother has a couple of terrible secrets--
This is a book you really should read--it is an eye opener for sure!Lethal Greed
#2 in the exciting and compelling "Greed" series, while, it can be read as a stand alone, I would suggest reading #1 "Fatal Greed" as well. This is a fast paced thriller, which involves greed, murder, suspense, and so much more. Any reader who enjoys thrillers, suspense and mystery will delight in "Lethal Greed". From the first page to the last, it's exciting, thrilling and well written with interesting characters. Mr. Mefford, has written a well thought out, thought-provoking tale of greed and all it encompasses from murder, to betrayal and all in between. "Greed" series, is well worth your time to read. I don't think you will regret your choice. An awesome read!
*Received for an honest review from the publisher*
Rating: 4.5 Heat rating: Hot, due to content,etc. Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Once again Mefford writes a book that hooks you from page one! Usually the second in a series seems to slow down a bit before heightening the action again later, however this sequel was far from sluggish. I love a book that can keep you thinking about the plot without getting lost and frustrated. Mefford’s impressive writing style did not disappoint.
Exciting characters were brought back from previous story and while Michael and Marisa are involved, they weren’t the forefront of the story plot making it seem like I was reading a new book but continuing the previous storyline. Once again we have a clear view of greed and how it drives our decisions when it's a predominant quality, but consequences are sure to follow. I found myself diving into book three as soon as I turned the final page!
North Texas teens are dying of drug overdoses. Where are these drugs coming from and who is selling them. These are not your normal street drugs, these are mixes of several drugs and kids are dying. After attending several of these funerals Michael Doyle and his news team want to find out what is happening. Especially after one of their coworkers daughter dies of an OD. Not only this but Michael’s Boss’ wife is kidnapped in Mexico and the boss has to come up with One Million dollars “as a tax” to get her back. So Michael and his team have their work cut out for them The book has action, suspense, as well as some unexpected surprises. I was kept on the edge of my seat from start to finish needing to know what happened next and who might die as well. Great Read looking forward to the next one.
While on vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Arthur’s wife Trudy gets kidnapped by the cartel. He has to come back home and liquidate his assets to pay the one million dollars to get her back.
Meanwhile, his coworkers at The Times Herald are investigating a rash of teen drug overdoses. When the investigation leads to Puerto Vallarta, they realize that the kidnapping and the drugs are connected.
Having liked these characters in the first book, I was so glad that the author brought them back. I grew even closer to them in this story. It kept me on the edge of my seat, not knowing if I was going to lose a friend or not. Needless to say, I couldn't put it down and had to read it in one sitting. I can’t wait for the next book to come out.
Being book #2 in the Greed Series, I was hopeful that it would be a continuance of book #1.
So as not to spoil things in case you haven’t read either books, it was a continuance… of sorts.
There are characters that are the same, but it isn’t a continuance of the same situation… (it is really hard to portray what I want to say without giving spoilers to either book).
I thought book #2 would pick up from the ending of book #1. It didn’t.
I personally enjoyed the subject of book #2 better just because of my personal history, education, and experience; I felt it was something I was knowledgeable in and that the book really followed the realism of it. It’s something that people could actually relate to.
I liked Lethal Greed and cannot wait to get started on book #3!
With drug trafficking, the user never really knows what they will get. Sometimes the outcome can be fatal, as in this story. The suppliers and those that help them thinking the money is good and are not responsible for what the drug does to the users, their family, friends, but mostly the community in which they live. It also shows to what length some people will go to 'get ahead' but when kidnapping and a ransom is requested that is just another part of the lethal greed. A very complex story, but most entertaining, not the usual legal thriller type that John W Mefford is known for but just a suspenseful. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
A real eye opener with a well written storyline and well developed realistic characters. Will have you hooked from page 1 with plenty of suspense, mystery, and action. A real page turner that was very hard to put down. A thriller that I would highly recommend. A great thriller by a very talented author. Looking forward to the next Greed thriller.
Thrilling edge of your seat episode in the Greed series. Well defined characters you can't help feeling anxious for. This story kept me up all night. John Mefford's style draws you in so completely you feel your right there. Can't wait for next for next book.
This story is about the infiltration of drugs into a small southern town and the consequences entailed. It’s a suspenseful thriller that held my attention from start to finish. It’s fast paced and action packed. Hard to put down. This honest review is based on a free copy from the author