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Ben Hope #22
The Demon Club
Life is good for ex-SAS soldier and rescue specialist Ben Hope. He’s found love, peace and happiness at last… That is, until a man he’s never seen before sits beside him on a plane, and makes him a proposal that turns his whole world upside down.
Now Ben must embark on a deadly mission to eliminate a former SAS comrade, the enigmatic, elusive and highly capable Jaden Wolf. If Ben fails, the people he cares about will die as punishment.
In a high-speed chase across Europe, Ben gradually learns the terrifying and disturbing truth about the men who have ensnared him in their clutches. A dark Satanic cult exists within the halls of power, and the only way for Ben to save himself and his loved ones is to declare war on the forces of evil. But who will win?
Now Ben must embark on a deadly mission to eliminate a former SAS comrade, the enigmatic, elusive and highly capable Jaden Wolf. If Ben fails, the people he cares about will die as punishment.
In a high-speed chase across Europe, Ben gradually learns the terrifying and disturbing truth about the men who have ensnared him in their clutches. A dark Satanic cult exists within the halls of power, and the only way for Ben to save himself and his loved ones is to declare war on the forces of evil. But who will win?
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First published November 26, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
December 7, 2020
Back for another tale in the Ben Hope series, Scott Mariani has again succeeded in keeping the momentum going. This series, which always seems to have something new to add, provides thrills and entertainment, as well as a few twists to keep the story sharp. Who doesn’t love a demonic cult of rich men? Sure to impress series fans and those looking for a well-paced thriller.
Jaden Wolf’s been given a mission to exterminate a man with a sizeable bank account that accompanies his stellar reputation. Wolf’s scouted him out and follows the prominent fellow to a rural part of England, only to stumble upon some sort of ritualistic event that ends in the sacrificial offering of a young woman. He’s got it on video, but only realises after the fact that his presence has also been caught on film, forcing him to flee.
After returning from a romantic weekend, Ben Hope is eager to see if this new belle might be someone worth keeping around. However, his thought processes are interrupted when someone approaches him on one of his flights back to France with a mission, find and kill Jaden Wolf. Otherwise, a certain ‘lady friend’ will be killed. Hope knows that he cannot risk the life of an innocent woman, so he reluctantly agrees.
Hope traces Wolf to the outskirts of a Spanish village, remembering how they served together in the SAS. Wolf was a sly soldier and so Hope will have to use all his wits, if it means getting this done quickly and without making any waves. However, once Hope and Wolf come head to head, the truth is revealed about what the latter witnessed, forcing Hope to reconsider his extermination contract.
All the while, Hope’s two associates learn what’s been going on and go into full protection mode, travelling to Scotland to aid a lass from being murdered. This, in turn, takes much of the pressure off Hope and leaves him able to focus on the task at hand, learning more about this ritualistic group. It turns out, its members are all important figures in the British social community and one has penned a tell-all book, but not before being killed himself.
It will be up to Wolf and Hope to learn more about The Pandemonium Club—as they call themselves—and the rules of their game. This could be the only way to truly end the demonic acts these men perform, masked and robed in the dead of night. However, it will be no walk in the park, but more a stroll through the depths of Hell!
Scott Mariani has never failed to keep me entertained with one of his Ben Hope novels. Mixing the thrill of the hunt with some educational aspects of lesser-known groups, the reader is always treated to something well worth their while. While the series is well-established, this being the 22nd novel, things have never waned to the point of overdoing it, as can be said for some series that stretch well past their best-before date.
Ben Hope returns for more protagonist fun. He’s always eager to show off his brains and brawn, though does toss in a little character development on occasion as well. Eager to take on a mission that will leave him vulnerable, Hope knows what it means to stand up against the forces of evil, no matter whose hiding in the shadows. Still, he is less reckless than one might expect, but makes up for it with a great deal of grit.
With a mix of recurring characters and those who are new to the Hope sphere, Mariani uses his supporting characters effectively. The story rests on interactions and narrative momentum that is fuelled by well-established secondary characters. One learns a great deal about Hope’s past, as well as his determination, though the actions of those who grace the pages of the book. Mariani keeps the banter and jokes coming with them, but also injects the needed evil aspects to keep the plot from going stale.
The story itself was entertaining, even if it might not have been entirely unique. A demonic cult of wealthy men with a core sentiment driving them has a way of grabbing the reader’s interest. While Ben Hope is an acquired taste for some, I have come to like the stories, eager when I hear that a new one is on the way. With a mix of short and longer chapters, I can rely on being pulled into the middle of a worthwhile plot and kept wondering until all is revealed. The attentive reader will also see great connections to other books in the series, without rehashing everything at the beginning of each novel. Highly entertaining and perfect for this time of year, which has proven to be very hectic for me.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani, for another winner. I am happy to find that you can still lure me in with your ideas.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Jaden Wolf’s been given a mission to exterminate a man with a sizeable bank account that accompanies his stellar reputation. Wolf’s scouted him out and follows the prominent fellow to a rural part of England, only to stumble upon some sort of ritualistic event that ends in the sacrificial offering of a young woman. He’s got it on video, but only realises after the fact that his presence has also been caught on film, forcing him to flee.
After returning from a romantic weekend, Ben Hope is eager to see if this new belle might be someone worth keeping around. However, his thought processes are interrupted when someone approaches him on one of his flights back to France with a mission, find and kill Jaden Wolf. Otherwise, a certain ‘lady friend’ will be killed. Hope knows that he cannot risk the life of an innocent woman, so he reluctantly agrees.
Hope traces Wolf to the outskirts of a Spanish village, remembering how they served together in the SAS. Wolf was a sly soldier and so Hope will have to use all his wits, if it means getting this done quickly and without making any waves. However, once Hope and Wolf come head to head, the truth is revealed about what the latter witnessed, forcing Hope to reconsider his extermination contract.
All the while, Hope’s two associates learn what’s been going on and go into full protection mode, travelling to Scotland to aid a lass from being murdered. This, in turn, takes much of the pressure off Hope and leaves him able to focus on the task at hand, learning more about this ritualistic group. It turns out, its members are all important figures in the British social community and one has penned a tell-all book, but not before being killed himself.
It will be up to Wolf and Hope to learn more about The Pandemonium Club—as they call themselves—and the rules of their game. This could be the only way to truly end the demonic acts these men perform, masked and robed in the dead of night. However, it will be no walk in the park, but more a stroll through the depths of Hell!
Scott Mariani has never failed to keep me entertained with one of his Ben Hope novels. Mixing the thrill of the hunt with some educational aspects of lesser-known groups, the reader is always treated to something well worth their while. While the series is well-established, this being the 22nd novel, things have never waned to the point of overdoing it, as can be said for some series that stretch well past their best-before date.
Ben Hope returns for more protagonist fun. He’s always eager to show off his brains and brawn, though does toss in a little character development on occasion as well. Eager to take on a mission that will leave him vulnerable, Hope knows what it means to stand up against the forces of evil, no matter whose hiding in the shadows. Still, he is less reckless than one might expect, but makes up for it with a great deal of grit.
With a mix of recurring characters and those who are new to the Hope sphere, Mariani uses his supporting characters effectively. The story rests on interactions and narrative momentum that is fuelled by well-established secondary characters. One learns a great deal about Hope’s past, as well as his determination, though the actions of those who grace the pages of the book. Mariani keeps the banter and jokes coming with them, but also injects the needed evil aspects to keep the plot from going stale.
The story itself was entertaining, even if it might not have been entirely unique. A demonic cult of wealthy men with a core sentiment driving them has a way of grabbing the reader’s interest. While Ben Hope is an acquired taste for some, I have come to like the stories, eager when I hear that a new one is on the way. With a mix of short and longer chapters, I can rely on being pulled into the middle of a worthwhile plot and kept wondering until all is revealed. The attentive reader will also see great connections to other books in the series, without rehashing everything at the beginning of each novel. Highly entertaining and perfect for this time of year, which has proven to be very hectic for me.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani, for another winner. I am happy to find that you can still lure me in with your ideas.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
May 5, 2021
My usual genre is crime fiction or psychological thrillers, but every now and again I enjoy picking up action adventure books, for a break. The Ben Hope series is pretty much guaranteed a good read, this is book 22, and all but 2 have been highly rated.
Once again Ben Hope delivers bucket loads of thrills, a little bit of history all set in the remote beautiful Scottish Highlands. A captivating story with intriguing characters, as usual loads of blood and gore. Action packed, pretty much all the way through. The combination of short and long chapters, helps to keep the pace and bullet speed, and means it is difficult to put down. Looking forward to seeing where Ben goes with his relationship. Is it finally time for a bit of happiness?
If I am being picky the climax of the book was so intense, it felt as if the book slammed the brakes on. Personally, it needed an epilogue, to wind down and wrap up a couple of loose ends.
Once again Ben Hope delivers bucket loads of thrills, a little bit of history all set in the remote beautiful Scottish Highlands. A captivating story with intriguing characters, as usual loads of blood and gore. Action packed, pretty much all the way through. The combination of short and long chapters, helps to keep the pace and bullet speed, and means it is difficult to put down. Looking forward to seeing where Ben goes with his relationship. Is it finally time for a bit of happiness?
If I am being picky the climax of the book was so intense, it felt as if the book slammed the brakes on. Personally, it needed an epilogue, to wind down and wrap up a couple of loose ends.
August 3, 2021
Excellent, one of my favourite Ben Hope books.
February 23, 2021
This is definitely one of the best and best written Ben Hope books I've read and I've read them all this point.
Ben is given a very touch decision when is coerced into hunting down a former colleague by a secret society (think something akin to a Hellfire club), the tables are turned, new friendships are formed and the book is fast paced, getting even intense towards the end.
The body count is higher than usual, but it's all written in well.
My only criticism is that, with the intensity of the climax, the ending is quite sudden, a little wind-down or epilogue would have fitted in, especially with the one or two loose ends that are left open.
Ben is given a very touch decision when is coerced into hunting down a former colleague by a secret society (think something akin to a Hellfire club), the tables are turned, new friendships are formed and the book is fast paced, getting even intense towards the end.
The body count is higher than usual, but it's all written in well.
My only criticism is that, with the intensity of the climax, the ending is quite sudden, a little wind-down or epilogue would have fitted in, especially with the one or two loose ends that are left open.
November 29, 2020
Ben Hope at his inventive best, violence and revenge as he is forced to act against his will. Narrative never lets up the pace.
September 24, 2024
Another rip-roaring, roller coaster of a ride in the Ben Hope series of novels by Scott Mariani. Ben Hope is ex SAS (British special forces) and now plies his trade as a gun for hire, rescuing those in peril and righting wrongs while investigating historic mysteries and strange events - like a mixture of James Bond & Indiana Jones.
In The Demon Club (book 22 in the series), Ben’s whole life is thrown into chaos by a chance encounter on an airline. A threat to kill his girlfriend and family, if he doesn’t carry out the killing of a man. What begins as a story of fear, turns into a race across Europe and Ben uncovers a dark, satanic cult at the very heart of the British establishment, can he save his loved ones whilst investigating, tracking down and eliminating this sick club before it claims its next victim?
Addictive, exhilarating, an instant page turner. Bravo!
It’s worth noting that each book can be read as a standalone, it’s not necessary to read the whole series in order.
In The Demon Club (book 22 in the series), Ben’s whole life is thrown into chaos by a chance encounter on an airline. A threat to kill his girlfriend and family, if he doesn’t carry out the killing of a man. What begins as a story of fear, turns into a race across Europe and Ben uncovers a dark, satanic cult at the very heart of the British establishment, can he save his loved ones whilst investigating, tracking down and eliminating this sick club before it claims its next victim?
Addictive, exhilarating, an instant page turner. Bravo!
It’s worth noting that each book can be read as a standalone, it’s not necessary to read the whole series in order.
May 30, 2022
The Demon Club is book #22 of the action adventure series which star Ex-SAS officer Ben Hope.
Although I am a fan of the Ben Hope series in general, this book didn’t grip me like others that I have read. The subject matter of human sacrifice was rather dark for me, but it was the action around it which just felt a bit same as- same as and predictable. Even the grand finale didn’t really hold any great surprises and was all a little too convenient for me. Mariani can write better than this!
Although I am a fan of the Ben Hope series in general, this book didn’t grip me like others that I have read. The subject matter of human sacrifice was rather dark for me, but it was the action around it which just felt a bit same as- same as and predictable. Even the grand finale didn’t really hold any great surprises and was all a little too convenient for me. Mariani can write better than this!
November 30, 2020
Ahhhh....there is nothing like returning to an old friend and loving every minute of it. Ben Hope is in my top five favorite characters. Always.
Demon Club is INTENSE. Fast-paced, and Jeff and Tuesday are integral to the plot! Here's hoping Jaden Wolf appears in future books (hint, hint, Mr. Mariani).
Mr. Mariani writes great characters, great plots, and the action just never stops. I can only say I am so blessed to have found his books several years ago and have had the privilege to read all 22 of them. Viva Ben Hope!
Demon Club is INTENSE. Fast-paced, and Jeff and Tuesday are integral to the plot! Here's hoping Jaden Wolf appears in future books (hint, hint, Mr. Mariani).
Mr. Mariani writes great characters, great plots, and the action just never stops. I can only say I am so blessed to have found his books several years ago and have had the privilege to read all 22 of them. Viva Ben Hope!
December 6, 2020
I read this on Audible and absolutely loved it. I’ve read the whole series and as always can’t wait for the next one. I love the humour between the characters and the loyalty to each other. Thought provoking at times, these guys are trained killers but Jayden notes that there’s still hope for him. I just loved the dynamics between Ben and Jayden and Jeff and Tuesday. Scott Mariani is fabulous at drawing characters so we feel like we know them. There’s nothing better than a good old battle between good and evil and this definitely fits the bill.
November 15, 2020
Without doubt, Ben is my favourite action hero and he is in fine form in The Demon Club, which is one of the very best of this fantastic series. I've read these books for years and they never disappoint. When Ben finds evil at the very heart of the British establishment, he will stop at nothing to bring it down. Full of action, tense, thrilling and extremely well-written, I hung on to every word. Review to follow shortly on For Winter Nights.
August 14, 2024
Ben Hope is ex SAS. He is on a flight when a man sits down next to him, and passes Ben an assignment and there is no option. Ben has to kill a former army buddy, or hid girlfriend will die. Devil worshipping, sacrifices are just two aspects of the story. A great read, fast paced, and you simply have to read the book to the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2020
This book is targeted at a market I don't fall into. So when I was required to read it in the course of my work, I wasn't anticipating much enjoyment, to be perfectly frank! But I'm a pro so I knuckled down and got on with it.
What a pleasant surprise I had! Despite my being nowhere near what I imagine the target demographic is for this kind of novel, I enjoyed a cracking, fast-paced adventure with regular cliffhangers, some goodies and some baddies and a Satanic cult to be rooted out as a bonus! I wouldn't be at all surprised if I don't find myself reading another one of the books in this series at some point, because it was really refreshing.
This is all about ex-military "elite troops"-types, up against dark forces deep within the most respectable echelons of the British establishment. Don't worry, our heroes win through - it would be no fun at all without the goodies coming through, would it? I have to say, my experience was enhanced by the audiobook version which has been capably read by the perfectly-cast Colin Mace. So many characters, so many accents, ages, genders - these were bread and butter to him.
Why only 4 stars? Well, you can call me a literary snob if you like (I often do myself), but I did feel that there were times when the plot and characters were painted with over-broad brush strokes and veered towards stereotypes. I didn't mind that they did this, because I wasn't looking for undying literature in this read. Once I knew what I was reading, I wanted adventure, I wanted speed, and I wanted it relatively uncomplicated by too much subtlety and complexity that I needed to think about. I wanted entertainment, and I got it. This was about as good as you'll get, for what it is. I just can't bring myself to give it 5 stars! I'd have to know this kind of genre much better to be able to say whether it deserves the full complement, so to speak. I have to leave one star spare in case at some point I realise it deserves the full 5, so I can come back and tweak my review!
If you've read more of Ben Hope's adventures, you'll know what you're looking for from this novel and you'll be a better judge than I am. It would be true to say that the few female characters were two dimensional and paper-thin. But I enjoyed it anyway, I wouldn't ever go to a book like this and hope to find one of the leads is female and has some depth about her! I think many other people will be enjoyably entertained, too. Don't forget to check out the audiobook - the read really enhances the novel by bringing the characters right off the page. Kudos to Colin Mace! He and Scott Mariani have kept me royally occupied.
What a pleasant surprise I had! Despite my being nowhere near what I imagine the target demographic is for this kind of novel, I enjoyed a cracking, fast-paced adventure with regular cliffhangers, some goodies and some baddies and a Satanic cult to be rooted out as a bonus! I wouldn't be at all surprised if I don't find myself reading another one of the books in this series at some point, because it was really refreshing.
This is all about ex-military "elite troops"-types, up against dark forces deep within the most respectable echelons of the British establishment. Don't worry, our heroes win through - it would be no fun at all without the goodies coming through, would it? I have to say, my experience was enhanced by the audiobook version which has been capably read by the perfectly-cast Colin Mace. So many characters, so many accents, ages, genders - these were bread and butter to him.
Why only 4 stars? Well, you can call me a literary snob if you like (I often do myself), but I did feel that there were times when the plot and characters were painted with over-broad brush strokes and veered towards stereotypes. I didn't mind that they did this, because I wasn't looking for undying literature in this read. Once I knew what I was reading, I wanted adventure, I wanted speed, and I wanted it relatively uncomplicated by too much subtlety and complexity that I needed to think about. I wanted entertainment, and I got it. This was about as good as you'll get, for what it is. I just can't bring myself to give it 5 stars! I'd have to know this kind of genre much better to be able to say whether it deserves the full complement, so to speak. I have to leave one star spare in case at some point I realise it deserves the full 5, so I can come back and tweak my review!
If you've read more of Ben Hope's adventures, you'll know what you're looking for from this novel and you'll be a better judge than I am. It would be true to say that the few female characters were two dimensional and paper-thin. But I enjoyed it anyway, I wouldn't ever go to a book like this and hope to find one of the leads is female and has some depth about her! I think many other people will be enjoyably entertained, too. Don't forget to check out the audiobook - the read really enhances the novel by bringing the characters right off the page. Kudos to Colin Mace! He and Scott Mariani have kept me royally occupied.
December 1, 2021
this is another book that i realised was part of a series only after getting into it, but it didn't seem to matter. it makes sense that it's part of a series, as on it's own there's nothing really very unique about it.
regardless, i really liked it. i do find ben hope as a protagonist very boring, he seems to have little to no charisma, nor anything particularly interesting about his character besides being cool and badass. most of the time his dialogue is just the set up for someone else's one-liner. but thankfully, the one-liners save him, so he wasn't super unbearable.
i love jaden wolf, probably more than hope. he's funny, witty and yet also kind of dorky, as well as being a genius killing-machine also, of course. mariani keeps the tone light, even when things seem hopeless (ha-ha), through wolf. it made me disheartened to see that wolf is not in any of the previous ben hope books in the series, as i wonder what the mood is like without him.
like i said, there's not a lot that's unique about it, and that refers to the story. it's a little cliche and predictable, but you sort of go into it knowing what to expect and in that sense it doesn't let you down. where mariani's writing really shines is through the interactions between characters. jeff and tuesday are a great comedic duo, despite the severity of the situation they get themselves into, and ben and wolf's back and forth is super fun.
it's only because i found ben hope boring and the plot too predictable at times that i don't give it 5 stars, as it definitely was fun. i'll have to look into some other books in the series, just to see if i can take it without wolf's cute quips there to console me.
regardless, i really liked it. i do find ben hope as a protagonist very boring, he seems to have little to no charisma, nor anything particularly interesting about his character besides being cool and badass. most of the time his dialogue is just the set up for someone else's one-liner. but thankfully, the one-liners save him, so he wasn't super unbearable.
i love jaden wolf, probably more than hope. he's funny, witty and yet also kind of dorky, as well as being a genius killing-machine also, of course. mariani keeps the tone light, even when things seem hopeless (ha-ha), through wolf. it made me disheartened to see that wolf is not in any of the previous ben hope books in the series, as i wonder what the mood is like without him.
like i said, there's not a lot that's unique about it, and that refers to the story. it's a little cliche and predictable, but you sort of go into it knowing what to expect and in that sense it doesn't let you down. where mariani's writing really shines is through the interactions between characters. jeff and tuesday are a great comedic duo, despite the severity of the situation they get themselves into, and ben and wolf's back and forth is super fun.
it's only because i found ben hope boring and the plot too predictable at times that i don't give it 5 stars, as it definitely was fun. i'll have to look into some other books in the series, just to see if i can take it without wolf's cute quips there to console me.
November 30, 2020
A nail-biting high octane compelling thriller by Scott Mariani as he is back with his famous protagonist, Ben Hope in the 22nd book titled "The Demons Club". The ex-SAS operative is on his way back after spending some sentimental days with his newly found lady love in the highlands of Scotland, when he is confronted by a stranger on the plane tasking him to eliminate a former SAS comrade, failing which his lady love will be assassinated. Caught in a predicament, he returns to his base in Le Val, Normandy, and quickly leaves for London without disclosing his mission to his two military colleagues. "To find a wolf, you must think like a wolf". Ben uses this metaphor to track down his comrade, Jaden Wolf who has taken shelter in a secluded village in Spain. Ben learns from him about the existence of a dark satanic cult, the epicenter of their operations being from Karswell Hall and comprising of secret rulers, billionaires, corporate emperors, kingmakers, men at the pinnacle of international politics who threaten the secular world. What follows next is a time-bound stealth game, where Ben has to not only rescue his lady love but also bring down this Luciferian cabal. Together with his Le Val colleagues and Jaden Wolf, Ben Hope steers the execution of a master plan. From the very onset, the book has been a gripping page-turner and fast-paced action-packed concoction that will keep you awake late nights to finish reading it. Excellent read for Jason Bourne, Jack Reacher, and Will Jordan enthusiasts.
December 21, 2020
Disappointing
I am a loyal fan of the Ben Hope series. As a general rule, the plot is fast paced and moderately believable. I think the best way to describe this series is "boys own escapism". (Sorry, that's not meant to be politically incorrect or sexist, it's just a turn of phrase!) But there was something about this particular storyline which I was uncomfortable with. IMHO satanism and human sacrifice seemed a subject unsuited to a Ben Hope storyline. All that said, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I am a loyal fan of the Ben Hope series. As a general rule, the plot is fast paced and moderately believable. I think the best way to describe this series is "boys own escapism". (Sorry, that's not meant to be politically incorrect or sexist, it's just a turn of phrase!) But there was something about this particular storyline which I was uncomfortable with. IMHO satanism and human sacrifice seemed a subject unsuited to a Ben Hope storyline. All that said, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 27, 2022
Another great Ben Hope adventure.
May 2, 2021
As always, another great book by Scott Mariani and so well-written. His writing style has everything a thriller needs - it has intensity, mystery, a very specific sense of humour being sarcastic or dark at times, well-researched and so catchy, it simply grabs your attention from start to finish.
Ever since I read the sneak peek for The Demon Club in the previous book I knew this book was gonna be something else, something very dark and intense. Well, you can bet it is. The topic itself is a very controversial one and that's what I love about thrillers, there's no taboo as every topic makes for an excellent thriller novel.
I like this new character Wolf, he reminds me a little bit of Jeff as they've both got this dark sense of humour. I'd loved to see more interaction between the two of them. They would've been an iconic duo. Or maybe getting at each other's throat because they're too alike. Still, it would've been so funny either way.
The theme of the book is so dark, so vile, I knew it was going to be absolutely nuts from the start. Ritualistic murders for sure gives lots of ground to write on. Without giving any spoilers, getting Ben involved was a huge mistake and we all know baddies pay the price for that. After all, our Ben is one hack of a man or as I love to say, he's a one-man army with a very specific skillset. I love how he took things into his own hands even when holding back, Ben's a very capable and resourceful character. It just shows how good he is and his whole military training, like there was a very good reason why he was in SAS in the first place.
I have to say, I was a little down by the fact the graphic descriptions weren't as numerous. I mean we've had all kinds of nasty stuff before so I felt as lacking in these scenes. On the other hand, knowing the matter of the subject and the things the Order did, maybe leaving out some of these scenes was probably for the better.
Overall, the book was brilliantly done, the research done is so mind-blowing and it shows how much dedication the author brings to everything. It was intense, suspenseful, funny even and very violent which is like the perfect recipe for a good thriller. I love we had Jeff and Tuesday in the action too, seeing their side of things as another plotline, it's so cool. As always, I enjoyed another one of Ben's adventures, I simply cannot get enough of him. Ben's so enigmatic and so charismatic too! I cannot wait for the Pandemic Plot, it's gonna be awesome! At that thought, there wasn't a sneak peek for it and I'm so sad but I only have to wait a couple of weeks before it comes out so not so bad actually!
Ever since I read the sneak peek for The Demon Club in the previous book I knew this book was gonna be something else, something very dark and intense. Well, you can bet it is. The topic itself is a very controversial one and that's what I love about thrillers, there's no taboo as every topic makes for an excellent thriller novel.
I like this new character Wolf, he reminds me a little bit of Jeff as they've both got this dark sense of humour. I'd loved to see more interaction between the two of them. They would've been an iconic duo. Or maybe getting at each other's throat because they're too alike. Still, it would've been so funny either way.
The theme of the book is so dark, so vile, I knew it was going to be absolutely nuts from the start. Ritualistic murders for sure gives lots of ground to write on. Without giving any spoilers, getting Ben involved was a huge mistake and we all know baddies pay the price for that. After all, our Ben is one hack of a man or as I love to say, he's a one-man army with a very specific skillset. I love how he took things into his own hands even when holding back, Ben's a very capable and resourceful character. It just shows how good he is and his whole military training, like there was a very good reason why he was in SAS in the first place.
I have to say, I was a little down by the fact the graphic descriptions weren't as numerous. I mean we've had all kinds of nasty stuff before so I felt as lacking in these scenes. On the other hand, knowing the matter of the subject and the things the Order did, maybe leaving out some of these scenes was probably for the better.
Overall, the book was brilliantly done, the research done is so mind-blowing and it shows how much dedication the author brings to everything. It was intense, suspenseful, funny even and very violent which is like the perfect recipe for a good thriller. I love we had Jeff and Tuesday in the action too, seeing their side of things as another plotline, it's so cool. As always, I enjoyed another one of Ben's adventures, I simply cannot get enough of him. Ben's so enigmatic and so charismatic too! I cannot wait for the Pandemic Plot, it's gonna be awesome! At that thought, there wasn't a sneak peek for it and I'm so sad but I only have to wait a couple of weeks before it comes out so not so bad actually!
September 25, 2022
Ben Hope always does it for me. I have read, in reviews, him described as James Bond meets Jason Bourne, but I don’t think that either of those descriptions fit him well, although I agree that, like them, he is tough as they come, hard as nails, quick thinking and shrewd to a fault, but he is also compassionate and cares deeply for innocent and hard done to human beings and also for his past comrades who are always there for him.
In this story, Ben meets a man on a plane who gives him an ultimatum to find one of his old comrades, Wolf, who has witnessed something that he shouldn’t have, and kill him, or Ben’s girlfriend and his sister, who are both under close surveillance, will meet a terrible demise. Ben has no options and so sets off to find Wolf, but when he does, he cannot kill him and together they pledge to find the man who gave the order. They discover that he is a member of a Devil worshipping cult that is full of people who are not only rich but are at the head of some of Britain’s leading societies, politicians, lawyers, top policemen, a cult who believe that they are untouchable and have been getting away with atrocities for decades. They are truly evil and Ben means to put a stop to them.
It is a real rollercoaster ride and a book that I just couldn’t put down. It was both thrilling and exciting, which is all that I come ro expect from the writing of Scott Mariani. The Ben Hope series is one that I have not read in sequence because each one can be read as a complete stand alone and I am confident that which ever one that I read next will be just as engrossing. For me this has been one of his best! 5/5.
In this story, Ben meets a man on a plane who gives him an ultimatum to find one of his old comrades, Wolf, who has witnessed something that he shouldn’t have, and kill him, or Ben’s girlfriend and his sister, who are both under close surveillance, will meet a terrible demise. Ben has no options and so sets off to find Wolf, but when he does, he cannot kill him and together they pledge to find the man who gave the order. They discover that he is a member of a Devil worshipping cult that is full of people who are not only rich but are at the head of some of Britain’s leading societies, politicians, lawyers, top policemen, a cult who believe that they are untouchable and have been getting away with atrocities for decades. They are truly evil and Ben means to put a stop to them.
It is a real rollercoaster ride and a book that I just couldn’t put down. It was both thrilling and exciting, which is all that I come ro expect from the writing of Scott Mariani. The Ben Hope series is one that I have not read in sequence because each one can be read as a complete stand alone and I am confident that which ever one that I read next will be just as engrossing. For me this has been one of his best! 5/5.
August 5, 2021
At the end of the previous book in the series (The Pretender's Gold), Major Ben Hope had started a budding relationship with a Scottish policewoman. This relationship has progressed since the end of The Pretender's Gold and the start of this book and he now regularly travels from his home in France back to Scotland to cement this relationship further. This relationship has not gone un-noticed by certain people and when he takes his seat on a plane from Scotland back to France he is confronted by a man who asks him to eliminate a former SAS comrade. Ben Hope turns this man down until he is shown video evidence that this man has now girlfriend under constant surveillance and that he will have her killed with one phone call. So Ben is left with no option but to try and carry out this man's proposal. So this is the start of this story, but this a Major Ben Hope story and things are not as easy as it seems for all involved. This story involves the upper echelons of society and their involvement with human sacrifices and their worship of a demon God. Major Ben Hope is far from happy that someone has threatened the life of a loved one and he has to pay for this, but first he must find this ex SAS comrade. During this story Ben's fellow instructors at La Val, Jeff Decker and Tuesday Fletcher take bigger roles than they have for a long time. This is another 100 mile an hour story full of action and excitement, a great read and an excellent addition to the series.
December 4, 2020
The best Ben Hope adventure yet.
Ben is flying home to Le Val in Normandy after visiting his girlfriend Grace in Scotland. A man sits next to him and persuades Ben to assassinate a former SAS colleague. Ben's motivation? If he doesn't do it, then not only is Grace's life in jeopardy, but also his sister, Ruth's life. It's a no brainer.
Ben is to tell nobody what he's doing, but his friends Jeff and Tuesday guess he needs them, so they follow and help Ben in his mission.
Ben tracks his target down to Spain, where they join forces and turn the tables on the men who employed them both for separate missions.
The quest takes them to the Isle of Man, Scotland and a country house in southern England. The men they're after are in a secret society that worships satan, called the Pandemonium Club. These men are judges, police officers, MPs and all sorts of high profile jobs, who believe they are above the law. They soon realise their mistake, as Ben and his colleagues track them down and dispense their own form of justice.
I didn't want this book to end, I was enjoying it so much! Can't wait to see if there's another one in the new year.
Ben is flying home to Le Val in Normandy after visiting his girlfriend Grace in Scotland. A man sits next to him and persuades Ben to assassinate a former SAS colleague. Ben's motivation? If he doesn't do it, then not only is Grace's life in jeopardy, but also his sister, Ruth's life. It's a no brainer.
Ben is to tell nobody what he's doing, but his friends Jeff and Tuesday guess he needs them, so they follow and help Ben in his mission.
Ben tracks his target down to Spain, where they join forces and turn the tables on the men who employed them both for separate missions.
The quest takes them to the Isle of Man, Scotland and a country house in southern England. The men they're after are in a secret society that worships satan, called the Pandemonium Club. These men are judges, police officers, MPs and all sorts of high profile jobs, who believe they are above the law. They soon realise their mistake, as Ben and his colleagues track them down and dispense their own form of justice.
I didn't want this book to end, I was enjoying it so much! Can't wait to see if there's another one in the new year.
December 9, 2020
The Demon Club. Scott Mariani
Ben Hope has Reached a moment in his life where everything is in place. He has just left his girlfriend's house in Scotland and is heading back to France to his security protection business and his two best friends and partners Jeff Dekker and Tuesday. Life is good. All that is about to abruptly change . The plane Ben is a passenger on is almost empty of passengers. In flight he is approached by a man who knows every aspect of his life in intimate detail. His girlfriend's name, his sister's name as well as their personal history. He has a job for Ben and people he cares deeply about will die if he refuses.. This tremendous read delves into the world of secretive Satanic cults. Their members are powerful world leaders, politicians, corporate leaders....People who are untouchable. They didn't factor Ben Hope into their devious and twisted life. Non stop action!! Another stupendous read in this series!! Enjoyed immensely!!
Ben Hope has Reached a moment in his life where everything is in place. He has just left his girlfriend's house in Scotland and is heading back to France to his security protection business and his two best friends and partners Jeff Dekker and Tuesday. Life is good. All that is about to abruptly change . The plane Ben is a passenger on is almost empty of passengers. In flight he is approached by a man who knows every aspect of his life in intimate detail. His girlfriend's name, his sister's name as well as their personal history. He has a job for Ben and people he cares deeply about will die if he refuses.. This tremendous read delves into the world of secretive Satanic cults. Their members are powerful world leaders, politicians, corporate leaders....People who are untouchable. They didn't factor Ben Hope into their devious and twisted life. Non stop action!! Another stupendous read in this series!! Enjoyed immensely!!
December 11, 2020
Ben Hope is again back in Demon club, 22nd installment of Ben Hope series by Scott Mariani. Scott knows how to write a action packed fast paced thriller with historical conspiracy touch. He nailed it again.
In this book, Ben faces against the most influential and powerful peoples who were behind the international politics. He is assigned with a job to track and kill his old pal named Jaden wolf. If he resists, his girlfriend Grace kirk will be killed. Soon he finds out that those people were not merely high profile peoples but members of a century old blood thirsty, Satan worshipping cult named 'The pandemonium Club'.
He can't seek help from any of his friends and never try to alert Grace in any manner that she is being watched. Failing to follow any of the above mentioned rules will lead to instant killing of Grace. Those where the golden rules from the man named Saunders who left Ben with no other option to resist.
Can Ben Hope save his love Grace by killing his old pal wolf or can he find some other way to save both of them and destroy the club for the good of world?
In this book, Ben faces against the most influential and powerful peoples who were behind the international politics. He is assigned with a job to track and kill his old pal named Jaden wolf. If he resists, his girlfriend Grace kirk will be killed. Soon he finds out that those people were not merely high profile peoples but members of a century old blood thirsty, Satan worshipping cult named 'The pandemonium Club'.
He can't seek help from any of his friends and never try to alert Grace in any manner that she is being watched. Failing to follow any of the above mentioned rules will lead to instant killing of Grace. Those where the golden rules from the man named Saunders who left Ben with no other option to resist.
Can Ben Hope save his love Grace by killing his old pal wolf or can he find some other way to save both of them and destroy the club for the good of world?
February 24, 2021
I do love a Ben Hope thriller, there is always plenty of action, a touch of romance,some historic background they are always fast paced...when you find yourself reading a book in the bath, whilst you are cooking, travelling home from work on the bus, when you hate to put it down,you know it’s a great book.
This one has a storyline about devil worshipers, sacrifices, rich evil men who think they own the world, and maybe they did,until they met Mr Hope and his friends, they upset Ben Hope when there is a threat against his girlfriend, upset him at your peril...
The story line reminds me of modern version of a Denis Wheatley satanic adventure.
I reckon this series of books, and I have read pretty much all of them would make a great TV series.
Ryan Phillippe would make a great Ben Hope, just saying...
This one has a storyline about devil worshipers, sacrifices, rich evil men who think they own the world, and maybe they did,until they met Mr Hope and his friends, they upset Ben Hope when there is a threat against his girlfriend, upset him at your peril...
The story line reminds me of modern version of a Denis Wheatley satanic adventure.
I reckon this series of books, and I have read pretty much all of them would make a great TV series.
Ryan Phillippe would make a great Ben Hope, just saying...
May 9, 2021
Definitely the best Ben Hope book for a while.
A lot of people will have heard of the famous Hellfire Club. This book is on the same sort of theme where important, influential men (yes men only are admitted) who become involved in Satanic rituals, some of the most blood thirsty type. Near the start of the story, Ben is threatened that unless he carries out a killing his girlfriend, Grace, will meet her end.
Whilst reading it I did check many of the names of organisations and companies mentioned and all either did exist, still exist or have simply changed their names. Heard of the Lucis Trust? Originally they were the Lucifer Publishing Company!
The story is very much a race against time.
A lot of people will have heard of the famous Hellfire Club. This book is on the same sort of theme where important, influential men (yes men only are admitted) who become involved in Satanic rituals, some of the most blood thirsty type. Near the start of the story, Ben is threatened that unless he carries out a killing his girlfriend, Grace, will meet her end.
Whilst reading it I did check many of the names of organisations and companies mentioned and all either did exist, still exist or have simply changed their names. Heard of the Lucis Trust? Originally they were the Lucifer Publishing Company!
The story is very much a race against time.
December 24, 2022
I must have read too many Ben Hope books as I kind of worked out how this book would go from when he was approached on a plane and his girlfriend Grace Kirk was threatened unless him he did as he was told. However, I still enjoyed this book a lot. But in this book he has to call on his friends to help, something they have always offered but he keeps rejecting as he preferred to do things alone in hope that no one else would get hurt.
As usual there are always those moments that they book could have done without, such as chapter 55. It wouldn't have made much difference if this was not included in the book. Plus the ending was left very much up in the air and could have done with an epilogue.
But still it was an enjoyable read.
As usual there are always those moments that they book could have done without, such as chapter 55. It wouldn't have made much difference if this was not included in the book. Plus the ending was left very much up in the air and could have done with an epilogue.
But still it was an enjoyable read.
June 21, 2023
You don’t need to read these books in series order to enjoy them. This is my first book by this author and I will definitely be buying more by him, certainly in this series! The author is great at defining the different characters so there’s no confusion (something I sometimes struggle with when reading) and there were fair portions of plot and action to keep the book consistently interesting throughout. One of my favourite books I’ve read to date. I read it months ago and I still think about it now.
December 24, 2023
SUCH AN INCREDIBLE BOOK
Wow this book had been gagged up from the start. I loved everything about this book, plot, writing, short chapters, detailed scenes, missing not a single bit of the story. I am a little disappointment on myself because its a 22nd book of this series which I read and liked it so much. Now I need to read all of Scott's book.
I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed it a lot. And I want to read only such kind of books. I want to say more but my target was to complete my reading goal today so I need to give review to this book quick as the day is about to end in 10 minutes.
Wow this book had been gagged up from the start. I loved everything about this book, plot, writing, short chapters, detailed scenes, missing not a single bit of the story. I am a little disappointment on myself because its a 22nd book of this series which I read and liked it so much. Now I need to read all of Scott's book.
I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed it a lot. And I want to read only such kind of books. I want to say more but my target was to complete my reading goal today so I need to give review to this book quick as the day is about to end in 10 minutes.
December 4, 2020
Another brilliant, pulsating Ben Hope thriller
Pulse racing and stomach churning - all the hallmarks of another masterful construction featuring Ben Hope and his cohorts taking on the bad guys
Against a background of mysterious cabals and gruesome secrets, this fast paced page turner produces one of Scott Mariani’s best books to date. High standard to beat in the next publication - can’t wait.
Pulse racing and stomach churning - all the hallmarks of another masterful construction featuring Ben Hope and his cohorts taking on the bad guys
Against a background of mysterious cabals and gruesome secrets, this fast paced page turner produces one of Scott Mariani’s best books to date. High standard to beat in the next publication - can’t wait.
March 14, 2022
I liked previous novel (Pretender's Gold) when Ben was teaming with an old SAS brother in arms and I liked this one (maybe even more than the previous) as another ex SAS former colleague is introduced in the series.
Bad guys this time are powerful elite guys (only males) in UK grouped in a satanist club (not a spoiler while it's already mentioned in the title :-)) so not an easy situation.
I wish this new character will return in next novels.
Bad guys this time are powerful elite guys (only males) in UK grouped in a satanist club (not a spoiler while it's already mentioned in the title :-)) so not an easy situation.
I wish this new character will return in next novels.
May 29, 2022
Scott Mariani has written some very good thrillers but this is not one of them. The plot is too simplistic, lacking imagination and full of unnecessary description that is repetitive and seems to be provided more as a page filling device than an enhancement to the atmosphere. The author is knocking out novels at a pace of two a year and it shows in the poor quality of the story line. I enjoyed about one out of the last four of the Hope novels and will not waste my time on any more of them.
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