On the Defensive

Ryan Kaine #3

by Kerry J. Donovan

Ryan Kaine is on the defensive...

Kaine, a wanted man on the run, receives a mysterious text with an address and the terse message: “Help them”.

When unscrupulous men try to force Greek restaurateurs, the Constantines, out of their business and their home, they stand firm. That is until the head of the family, Orestes, is attacked and left fighting for his life. Their neighbours are running scared. The police are turning a blind eye.

With one of The 83 in trouble, Kaine flies straight back into the heart of danger, without a second thought.

Trying to avoid the attention of the thousands of facial recognition cameras installed in London, Kaine finds himself waist deep in a mesh of treachery, lies, and deception, caught in a fight to the death that he cannot — and will not — afford to lose.

If you like Lee Child, Mark Dawson and Robert Ludlum, you’re going to find the Ryan Kaine series compulsively addictive.

Genres: Thriller, Audiobook, Fiction

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2020

About the author

#1 bestselling author with the US-based Lucky Shores romantic suspense series and the Ryan Kaine military action thrillers, and creator of the popular DCI Jones Casebook series of police procedurals, Kerry J Donovan was born in Dublin, before spending many formative years in West Wales.

Kerry earned a first-class honours degree in Human Biology and a PhD in Sport and Exercise Sciences. A former scientific advisor to The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, he helped UK emergency first-responders prepare for chemical and biological attacks in the wake of the 9/11 atrocities. This background adds a keen scientific edge to Kerry’s writing.

Kerry’s life experiences help him add an extra layer of realism to his stories and his characters. For example, readers will discover the water-borne adventures of his action hero, Ryan Kaine, a former member of the Royal Navy’s Special Boat Services, as authentic and exciting as a night-time dip in the Bay of Biscay.

As the owner of a “pristine” Honda NC750X, you’ll often find him touring the less well-known regions of Europe in search of interesting locations for his novels. A life-long sports enthusiast and open-water swimmer, the moment Kerry catches a glimpse of the ocean, it’s off with the bike leathers and on with his wetsuit.

A citizen of the world, Kerry recently returned from spending two decades living in the heart of rural Brittany and now lives with Margaret in a recently renovated bungalow in Nottinghamshire, UK.

When not writing, Kerry enjoys riding his motorbike, jogging, swimming, spending time with his four wonderful grandchildren, and travelling the world.

To find out more about Kerry’s books, read the first chapter of each book free, download his Press Kit, or get in touch via his contact page or social media.

Reviews

[Sean Peters (A Good Thriller) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A hard-working family is threatened. Two vicious killers and their ruthless boss are to blame. One man stands between them.When unscrupulous men try to force Greek restauranteurs, the Constantines, out of their business and their home, they stand firm. Until the head of the family, Orestes, is attacked and left fighting for his life. Their neighbours are running scared. The police are turning a blind eye.Former Royal Marine and international fugitive, Ryan Kaine, receives a mysterious text with an address and the terse message: “Help them”. With one of The 83—the families of the people who died aboard Flight BE1555—in trouble, Kaine flies straight back into the heart of danger, without a second thought.Trying to avoid the attention of the thousands of facial recognition cameras installed in London, Kaine finds himself waist deep in a mesh of treachery, lies, and deception, caught in a fight to the death that he cannot afford to lose.Using his years of covert field experience, intelligence provided by a secretive hacker, and a loyal team of his former colleagues to trace the threats back to their source.

Kerry J Donovan has a great character here, great story, action packed, clever, gripping and with some lovely touches of great humour, with his very dry humour. Assisted by four or five trusted friends, with add so much to the stories.

Ryan Kaine is … On the Defensive. If you like Lee Child , Mark Dawson, and Robert Ludlum, Gregg Hurwitz, Simon Kernick, Tom Wood, Mark Greaney, Ben Coes you’re going to find the Ryan Kaine’s 83 series compulsively addictive. Just like I do.

Straight on to book 4 !!

Can be read as a standalone novel. What fans are saying about Ryan Kaine’s 83 series: I agree with these comments. Highly recommended

“Love them! I want more.”“Another gripping story I tore through in one sitting. Highly recommended!”

“Fast paced, action-packed and hard to put down. Every Kaine story just gets better with each new release.”

“Another great book from Mr. Donovan! I love Ryan Kaine and his cast of characters. I can’t wait for the next one.”“Kaine is a fascinating hero and each story in the series is a gripping read.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series remains very solid. This book wasn’t quite as intense as the first two so not quite a 5 star for me this time. I think a 4 and 1/2 star is my actual rating. I really like Ryan Kaine and I sure hope at some point he allows himself a real relationship with the Doc. The ending…an interesting twist. Looking forward to continuing following Ryan and friends along their adventures.

[Bonnie Dale Keck · Rating 5 out of 5]

kindle unlimited, have read the others, not in to thrillers but if it's Donovan give it a go.

A simple act of vandalism. A victimised family. One man will protect them. When Ryan Kaine, former Royal Marine and current fugitive, learns of the Constantine family's problems, he leaves his coastal hideaway and rushes to their aid. The only problem is, he is the most wanted man in the UK and his face is on every billboard and news bulletin. Choosing his vow of protection for The 83, the eighty-three families of the people he killed on Flight BE1555, over the pleas of his friends, Kaine risks his life and takes the first plane to London. Fully recovered from his recent injuries and with a London safe house full of toys at his disposal, Kaine won't stop until the Constantines are safe. Can Kaine find out why the family are under attack, neutralise the threat, and make it out of London without being recognised?


Ryan Kaine: On the Run (Ryan Kaine #1)
Ryan Kaine: On the Rocks (Ryan Kaine #2)
Ryan Kaine: On the Defensive (Ryan Kaine #3)

The DCI Jones Casebook Box Set: Books 1-3 in the Casebook Series not ku - The DCI Jones Casebook: Sean Freeman not ku - The DCI Jones Casebook: Raymond Collins free - The DCI Jones Casebook: Ellis Flynn ku - The DCI Jones Casebook: Cryer's View ku
On Lucky Shores: A Chet Walker Adventure ku - The Transition of Johnny Swift ku - look at amazon writer page for others

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a previous review I mentioned how this author's writing has continued to evolve and this book is no exception. I really liked this story as it continues the premise established in Ryan Kaine: On the Rocks. Ryan has vowed to help the family members of the 83 people on the airline he shot down even with him being on the most wanted list.

This story charmed me. What, you say, this is supposed to be an action thriller and it is but it tells the beginning of a love story for Ryan which he is fighting for all he is worth.

It amazes me how this author creates such a complex plot with seeming ease. There are so many twists and turns in this story that it had me gasping out loud. Kerry J. Donavan has become one of my favorite authors.

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

There has been a proliferation of novels spawned by Jack Reacher, many of which are long on killings per page and short on writing skills.

Rayan Kaine: On the Defensive does not meet either of the above criteria. It is a superb story crafted by a terrific writer. Unfortunately, it is difficult to comment on the plot/story without spoiling it. I can say that it is exciting, enthralling, well-written and most importantly has a feel-good ending.

Kerry Donovan is a fine author and I look forward to reading more riveting Ryan Kaine novels.

[Alan McIlroy · Rating 3 out of 5]

My third in this series. Still providing everything a good adventure book should. Lots of action by the good guys against the bad guys. (Spoiler alert: The good guys win.) Very satisfying!

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book for proofreading purposes by the author and decided to review it. Please don't let the fact that I received a copy from the author make you this is a biased review. Nothing could be further from the truth. Some of the most scathing reviews I've written were for books I received for free. Believe me, if you see my name on a review, know it will be honest if nothing else.
I have definitely fallen under the spell of Ryan Kaine. He is all military, all about the job and about following orders until suddenly he isn't. He has a code of ethics to which he holds himself and those who work with him. He won't accept anything else. As a previous reviewer stated, I won't divulge the backstory in case you haven't read the previous books but you won't be lost if you start here.
The story is exciting, not quite as action-filled as the original but never dull by any means. The characters are so well-written you learn to care for them straightaway, and I can't think of a higher compliment. Also, the villains are so well-written you despise them to the core; also a great compliment.
I highly recommend the Ryan Kaine series. To miss out would be a shame.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Kerry Donovan, bringing us more excitement from Ryan Kaine. I felt there wasn’t quite as much action and fighting in this one, but the story was every bit as interesting and in many ways showed us the even more caring side of Captain Kaine and his need to help people who find themselves in dire circumstances. It also introduced us to more of his old military colleagues who are now destined to become part of his back-up team. Once more Lara Orchard is by his side, helping him to achieve his goals and the ending of this one, although not quite so much a race to the end, finished on a happy note. As always this one leads into the next one very nicely and makes it hard not to continue into the series.

[PATRICIA M KARCHER · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awsome

I'm about to start reading book 4! I love this series!!!
You take me into a different world each and every time!
You're the first "British author" I can read. When I started reading a British author I would give up because of British slang. You do use the same type of slang only I can understand what you're saying. I would like to thank you for that.
Anyway, I enjoy reading about different settings, descriptions of people and the world they live in.
Your description of the fights aren't too violent. I still wouldn't want you ticked off at me.
Just sitting on a balcony and hearing your description of the sun kissing the earth is a beautiful thing and I feel like I'm there.
Thank you for your books and thank you for being a author. Here's to you Captain.

[Alex Mellor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still trying to prove he’d known nothing about someone else’s plans, Ryan Kaine, is enjoying a more tranquil life in France. The 3rd book in the series builds on the first two books, with Ryan’s self-defence skills being frequently called upon. I enjoyed watching Ryan’s relationship with Lara Orchard budding, albeit with a few hiccups. Having read this book on a cold Saturday, I’ve been left wanting to find out who, from the newly created 83 Trust, will now require assistance, from Ryan and his trusted network.

[Habit_of_book_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again an interesting and exciting thriller in this series where Kaine holds himself to the promise he took at the end of the first book. Loved the way Kaine and Lara's relationship blooming and happy to see Kaine add more to his team. I always love a squad fighting against crime when compared to one man show. One thing which kind of stood out in this story is it kind of felt short or to say it finished rather quickly and it can be because I read the first 3 books in a box set and when reading it in the box set when compared to first 2 books this felt shorter.

[Paul DeHavilland · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is no doubt the writing style helps tell a story of Ryan and his latest involvement with the 83 in an easy to read manner. Pace is maintained while character’s continue to develop. Excellent to read and great fun. Hard to put down.
I do enjoy series like these with character’s you can easily feel fondness for while supporting their cause.
Only 4 stars on this one (the others easily got a 5) as felt like a transitional part of the series. All over rather quickly.
There is absolutely no doubt I will be starting the next instalment shortly

[Gary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great Heart & Fun, but Simplistic

The first book in the Ryan Kaine series sets up the rest nicely. The author writes well, especially for this genre, moving the stories along in a smooth and easily-flowing fashion.

On the Defensive, book 3, is simpler and more neatly (rather unbelievably so) written, but still a fun read. I do love the “Robin Hood” quality. I confess that I’m a sucker for Good Guys Win material—especially with a just cause.

I’m looking forward to the rest of the series. I suspect I shall gobble them up.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audiobook--I enjoyed the first 2 in the series significantly more than this one. "On the Defensive" should have been cut down to a short story. It took forever--more than 25% of the book--to even get to this book's main mission. This story was slow moving and repetitive, and the tone was louder, brasher and coarser than the previous two. While this change in temperment can potentially enhance a story, this time it did nothing to better it. In turn, the narrator also came across as louder, brasher and coarser. Really, this one was a bit disappointing.

[R.L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. Ryan Kaine, the protagonist, gets a distress call from the family of one of the 86 victims of the plane he shot from the sky. Despite obstacles such as being the most wanted man in Britain, he must go and help out. Turns out some big money investors want to destroy a family restaurant that stands in the way of their development. Some sinister people are out to get them and Ryan Kaine is out to get them. Makes for a good story.

[alan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 3 is the end for me

Enjoyed the first book but the last two have been short on new stuff. Lots of time spent recapping content from book 1&2. It is good to have a theme running through the series but I don’t think you can spend too much time re-writing previous books before you get on with the new one. As ex military I find some of that side a little mystifying. Think this is as far as I go with the series. Reacher is in no danger from this character, in my opinion, sorry

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ryan Kaine helped a. second victim

A family who were being victimized , a relative of the 83, came to his attention via an anonymous text asking to help them. Obviously very suspicious, thinking they had been compromised and checked everything before committing to leave his hideaway. He put in a call to Rollo to what he called babysit the Doc, which didn’t go down to well. He was shortly on his way to London. Great story, brilliant book.

[Sleepless · Rating 2 out of 5]

A sleepwalk!

I can't believe this book is in the same Ryan Kaine series! On the Defensive, is slow, boring and predictable (the story) The minutiae of travel, banal dialogue, redundancy and frustrating pacing made Kerry Donovan's very disappointing!
I did finish the book so I gave it 2 stairs for that!
I hate to write negative reviews but I was so disappointed, because I really enjoyed the first two books!

[Mr Mark Hawksford · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the Defensive -

This is book 3 in the series. All books have been good. The first is probably still my favourite, with this one to follow. This is full of action and is another pager turner. Ryan Kaine, the Doc and his pal are yet again up against the bad people in the world and helping the good. Another 5 out of 5 from me and I’ll be downloading book 4 to read in the future. Well worth reading the first three if you haven’t already.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another enjoyable (perhaps not quite the right word) Ryan Kaine Adventure. This time Ryan is called to London by a mysterious text. Is it a hoax to take him away from protecting Lara or is it genuine. How did this mysterious person have the secret number to send the text. You will need to read this novel to find out.

[Serena Buffaloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing story

Enjoyed this book. It didn't go the way I thought it would, and that was fine :+)
The action scenes were fantastic, and liked the intro of a team for Ryan , Rollo, and Lara. It was funny and exciting, and I am hooked !! On to the next story now.
Still wish that the slang was a little better explained, but I just skip over those parts. Great story !!

[Sebastian Barrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keep these coming!

Another cracking read involving Ryan and his trusted team. Having settled into a house in Aquitaine and had it built to specific plans, Ryan and Laura are ready to help the 83. A text from an unknown source sends Ryan off doing what he does best in London.
These novels are so much fun to read and would be worthy of a movie! And to the next in the series.

[Leek · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t like this book as well as the last two. The dialogue was just not as good. Writing seemed amateurish compared with previous, almost as if someone else was writing. The romantic dialogue left me wishing they would just move on, forget about any attraction between them. I will read the next book because the first two were very good.

[Jeffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am.enjoying this series. Good characters
Many return and one learns more about them as well as new ones come into the story.

Characters growing and changing is done well.

Love.the different disguises and identities that the Ryan takes on. Well.thought out.

Finished thisnon New Years Eve, but will.count it in 2024.

[Beverly Mccollum · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this book. It’s the third one in a series and I’m becoming quite interested in the characters that I’ve come to know. And the author’s development of these characters is nice to see. Once again- a tale of good versus evil —always covered with a deep sense of quilt/need for atonement. Recommend it.

[Clem Russo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit formula like. But still fun. Sometimes too much detail but loved all the action and his strategic stuff. You've got to love the character- Mr good guy.
I wonder if there are any real people who have all the physical skills Ryan has. Sort of like a jack reacher but isn't 6ft 5 and 250 lbs. I loved Reacher so I like this character too.

[Kathy Mower · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like books with lots of action, this series is for you. I would give it more stars if possible, it is very hard to put down, full of excitement, adventure and drama. BUT...at the end there is always just enough of a teaser for the next book, and you just have to keep reading on in the series.

[Robert Leigh Compton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read. Plenty of action and a real page turner.

Action all the way with some great twists and turns. Just pre ordered book 4. Bring it on. In the same vein as Baldacci, Patterson and Michael Connelly.

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant read

I love the descriptive writing full of detail that allows you to build the picture. The characters are lovable in a scary sort of way and you really want to protect the victims

[Sharon Harsin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Impressive

This is the third book of the series that I have read. Each book has kept me intrigued and wanting to know what will happen next! Each book is different from the previous one and not a rehash.