What do you think?
Rate this book
Christopher Wren #7
Backlash
They downed his jet. Let the backlash begin.
A passenger plane forced down over Texas airspace. A state on the edge of collapse, taking orders through unseen backchannels. One man on board may have something to say about that.
Christopher Wren.
What begins as the backlash to a year of chaos soon becomes a national odyssey for justice. They ripped Wren's world into pieces. They forced those pieces to the brink of self-destruction. Now they're looking to warp what remains, and corrupt America forever.
The backlash is only just beginning.
The acclaimed Christopher Wren novels are each a complete action adventure.
★★★★★ "Every bit as good as Reacher, Bourner or Rapp - I love Wren!"
★★★★★ "Addictive, intelligent, edge-of-your seat writing - as urgent and gripping as it gets!"
★★★★★ "John Wick meets Jack Reacher meets Jack Ryan - explosive, fast-paced and fun!"
Get the 7th pulse-pounding Chris Wren action thriller now.
A passenger plane forced down over Texas airspace. A state on the edge of collapse, taking orders through unseen backchannels. One man on board may have something to say about that.
Christopher Wren.
What begins as the backlash to a year of chaos soon becomes a national odyssey for justice. They ripped Wren's world into pieces. They forced those pieces to the brink of self-destruction. Now they're looking to warp what remains, and corrupt America forever.
The backlash is only just beginning.
The acclaimed Christopher Wren novels are each a complete action adventure.
★★★★★ "Every bit as good as Reacher, Bourner or Rapp - I love Wren!"
★★★★★ "Addictive, intelligent, edge-of-your seat writing - as urgent and gripping as it gets!"
★★★★★ "John Wick meets Jack Reacher meets Jack Ryan - explosive, fast-paced and fun!"
Get the 7th pulse-pounding Chris Wren action thriller now.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2021
291 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Mike Grist
23 books135 followersMike Grist is the British/American author of the Christopher Wren and Girl Zero thriller series.
For 11 years Mike lived in Tokyo, Japan, exploring and photographing the dark side of the city and the country: gangs, cults and abandoned places. Now he writes from London, UK, about ex-DELTA operator Christopher Wren - an anti-hero vigilante who brings brutal payback for dark crimes on an unprecedented scale.
Mike also writes science fiction and fantasy as Michael John Grist:
For 11 years Mike lived in Tokyo, Japan, exploring and photographing the dark side of the city and the country: gangs, cults and abandoned places. Now he writes from London, UK, about ex-DELTA operator Christopher Wren - an anti-hero vigilante who brings brutal payback for dark crimes on an unprecedented scale.
Mike also writes science fiction and fantasy as Michael John Grist:
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 4, 2022
Another Christopher Wren epic
An exceptional read yet again, Christopher Wren is a hero and I cannot wait to get to the next adventure 😀
An exceptional read yet again, Christopher Wren is a hero and I cannot wait to get to the next adventure 😀
December 25, 2021
ARC - 343 pges on kobo epub from author
The fall-out from the death of the Apex and the unmasking of X continues in a new and somewhat surprising direction. As ever Christopher Wren is in the the thick of things - but after an opening (in Bond films this would be the pre-credits sequence) involving a mopping-up operation that doesn't go entirely to plan his invovement in the main events comes about by accident.
All the expected elements are here - relentless pacing and unexpected plot twists, creative use of vehicles, a number of important supporting characters reappear... As ever, while this is fiction it has a disturbingly familiar feel - a not too overblown extrapolation from modern political trends in the US.
New readers should probably not start here but go back to the first volume to get the full visceral experience.
The fall-out from the death of the Apex and the unmasking of X continues in a new and somewhat surprising direction. As ever Christopher Wren is in the the thick of things - but after an opening (in Bond films this would be the pre-credits sequence) involving a mopping-up operation that doesn't go entirely to plan his invovement in the main events comes about by accident.
All the expected elements are here - relentless pacing and unexpected plot twists, creative use of vehicles, a number of important supporting characters reappear... As ever, while this is fiction it has a disturbingly familiar feel - a not too overblown extrapolation from modern political trends in the US.
New readers should probably not start here but go back to the first volume to get the full visceral experience.
December 18, 2021
This is another series that seems to get better and better with every book. And this one is a little cracker. The action starts from the begging and doesn’t let up all the way through. This is probably the best yet. Roll on book eight. Highly recommended.
December 31, 2021
Back Lash is the seventh in the Christopher Wren series of thrillers. I have read them all in sequence. But, I think they could be read out of sequence with a great deal of enjoyment. The one thing that would be missing is some of the richness of the various characters.
As before there is almost non-stop action. The one quiet interlude has Wren reading a novel in an airplane. It seemed both relaxing and normal. Let’s just say things changed pretty quickly . . .
This novel (as with the previous ones) is a bit over the top. Think of the opening sequence of a James Bond movie. The writing does remind me of a great action hero flick. What I’d give to see this series made into movies.
The novel has some recurring characters, some really evil people, a ton of misguided folks, and lots of twists and turns. Unfortunately, I was looking forward to finding out who (or what group) was behind the Apex as alluded to in the sixth novel -- perhaps next time?
One thing I really loved was that Wren, at the end of the novel, begins to show compassion which I’d not seen before. He is becoming more than just an action hero. Several scenes (which occurred during great duress to Wren) with a green-eyed girl really made me think about the nature of good and evil.
So, read it and enjoy it for the action and plot. But, leave a little room for compassion, humanity, and a growing Christopher Wren.
I received an ARC copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As before there is almost non-stop action. The one quiet interlude has Wren reading a novel in an airplane. It seemed both relaxing and normal. Let’s just say things changed pretty quickly . . .
This novel (as with the previous ones) is a bit over the top. Think of the opening sequence of a James Bond movie. The writing does remind me of a great action hero flick. What I’d give to see this series made into movies.
The novel has some recurring characters, some really evil people, a ton of misguided folks, and lots of twists and turns. Unfortunately, I was looking forward to finding out who (or what group) was behind the Apex as alluded to in the sixth novel -- perhaps next time?
One thing I really loved was that Wren, at the end of the novel, begins to show compassion which I’d not seen before. He is becoming more than just an action hero. Several scenes (which occurred during great duress to Wren) with a green-eyed girl really made me think about the nature of good and evil.
So, read it and enjoy it for the action and plot. But, leave a little room for compassion, humanity, and a growing Christopher Wren.
I received an ARC copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
January 26, 2022I cleared my schedule for an entire day - truly worth it, even during the holidays, for a Christopher Wren story - and devoured it in one long sitting. What a treat! If you can manage to do that, I'd recommend it because once you start you won't want to stop. The story is addictive, and the characters are complex.
The book starts right up in the middle of the action and doesn't let up. There is a colorful cast of characters, to say the least. There are reminders of events in previous books, and it can be read as a standalone, but IMO it’s a series best read in order. And why not read all of them? They’re fun! This is in no way a criticism of the author - in fact, I think it is a testament to how interesting and essential the details are. In this series as a whole, I appreciate the message of hope and second chances, that people who have messed up in the past can do a lot of good.
The book has plenty of exciting action, but on a deeper level there is a cautionary tale of what could happen with extreme divisiveness. Still, it isn't preachy. Bottom line: get it, read it, and have fun!
I did receive a complimentary copy of the book, but I am freely choosing to leave an honest review.
The book starts right up in the middle of the action and doesn't let up. There is a colorful cast of characters, to say the least. There are reminders of events in previous books, and it can be read as a standalone, but IMO it’s a series best read in order. And why not read all of them? They’re fun! This is in no way a criticism of the author - in fact, I think it is a testament to how interesting and essential the details are. In this series as a whole, I appreciate the message of hope and second chances, that people who have messed up in the past can do a lot of good.
The book has plenty of exciting action, but on a deeper level there is a cautionary tale of what could happen with extreme divisiveness. Still, it isn't preachy. Bottom line: get it, read it, and have fun!
I did receive a complimentary copy of the book, but I am freely choosing to leave an honest review.
December 23, 2021
Christopher Wren book 7
Very lucky Mike gave me a pre release of Back Lash which I couldn’t put down.
Returning from a mission which resulted in the death of 2 of his X brothers Christopher settles into a flight on 787 he is attacked by 2 cucumber carrying kids travelling with their mum.
The 787 is forced down onto an American air base in
teXAs & Christopher discovers Air Marshal Yolanda shot & makes his escape from 787 with Yolanda from the air base kllling dodgy marines during his getaway.
He gets his team together & they hunt the guys who orchestrated the attack on 787 which is later blasted from the sky killing hundreds of passengers.
The Backlash begins as teXas is withdrawn from the Union States with Christopher’s fathers followers behind X putting him in grave danger & public enemy number one.
How does he cope read and enjoy a fantastic thriller
Very lucky Mike gave me a pre release of Back Lash which I couldn’t put down.
Returning from a mission which resulted in the death of 2 of his X brothers Christopher settles into a flight on 787 he is attacked by 2 cucumber carrying kids travelling with their mum.
The 787 is forced down onto an American air base in
teXAs & Christopher discovers Air Marshal Yolanda shot & makes his escape from 787 with Yolanda from the air base kllling dodgy marines during his getaway.
He gets his team together & they hunt the guys who orchestrated the attack on 787 which is later blasted from the sky killing hundreds of passengers.
The Backlash begins as teXas is withdrawn from the Union States with Christopher’s fathers followers behind X putting him in grave danger & public enemy number one.
How does he cope read and enjoy a fantastic thriller
December 24, 2021
Absolutely brilliant!
I love the Christopher Wren series and I've read all the books but I couldn't put this book down, I read 'till my eyes hurt.
CW isn't afraid to put himself in danger, with or without the help of his close-knit team. It was so thrilling and full of action that at some parts, I was holding my breath until the danger had passed, then it started again!
I'd recommend reading the series in order, so you understand the complex, yet loveable characters, their roles and idiosyncrasies. The books are 'edge of your seat' thrilling, great storylines, characters you are rooting for and each book just keeps getting better and better!
More please, Mike!
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I love the Christopher Wren series and I've read all the books but I couldn't put this book down, I read 'till my eyes hurt.
CW isn't afraid to put himself in danger, with or without the help of his close-knit team. It was so thrilling and full of action that at some parts, I was holding my breath until the danger had passed, then it started again!
I'd recommend reading the series in order, so you understand the complex, yet loveable characters, their roles and idiosyncrasies. The books are 'edge of your seat' thrilling, great storylines, characters you are rooting for and each book just keeps getting better and better!
More please, Mike!
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
September 11, 2023
Project X
There is so much packed into this read, it’s just adrenaline fuelled action all the way from start to finish. Christopher Wren has simply the best foundation team of black operatives but is not afraid of going in solo when needs must. Mostly based in Texas the authors knowledge and research is incredible. I know this because as although I am in England (as is the author) my daughter lives in Wichita Falls, her husband on the Airbase nearby and I have travelled and recognise the area from Mike’s description. It was surreal.
Where Christopher Wren goes havoc follows and the USA government can’t keep up.
There is so much packed into this read, it’s just adrenaline fuelled action all the way from start to finish. Christopher Wren has simply the best foundation team of black operatives but is not afraid of going in solo when needs must. Mostly based in Texas the authors knowledge and research is incredible. I know this because as although I am in England (as is the author) my daughter lives in Wichita Falls, her husband on the Airbase nearby and I have travelled and recognise the area from Mike’s description. It was surreal.
Where Christopher Wren goes havoc follows and the USA government can’t keep up.
December 26, 2021
I received this novel through ARC in exchange of an honest review. A plane goes down over Texas with the Agent Chris Wren on board, all hell breaks out. Definitely an edge of your seat book. Mike Grist puts you in the middle of the action with his great writing style. His characters come to life, great plot line. Can hardly wait for the next adventure that the hero Christopher Wren stars in.
January 5, 2022
Wowzer, was this a good one! Starts out simple enough. After an op, Wren needs some time off so he books a commercial flight to go see his kids. But there is a US Senator and her kids on board who has been targeted. Her vote is critical for Texas to leave the Union. You know Xers are mixed up in this. Apex reaching out from the grave. More action here than maybe should be allowed in one book.
January 16, 2022
Gripping storyline
Yet again Christopher Wren finds himself searching for answers to why innocent people have been killed and he uses all his skills and resources to find the guilty parties and bring them to justice so that they pay for the crimes they have committed against the innocent people they destroyed.
Another book in the series that is hard to put down.
Yet again Christopher Wren finds himself searching for answers to why innocent people have been killed and he uses all his skills and resources to find the guilty parties and bring them to justice so that they pay for the crimes they have committed against the innocent people they destroyed.
Another book in the series that is hard to put down.
January 22, 2022
stunning turn of events
As The Apex’s acolytes and disciples plot and scheme, Christopher Wren is inadvertently swept into the latest machination to secede and create a new country of X loyalists.
As The Apex’s acolytes and disciples plot and scheme, Christopher Wren is inadvertently swept into the latest machination to secede and create a new country of X loyalists.
June 7, 2022
Excellent book, well written and a great story all the way through, very enjoyable and worth reading for a second time, it is as I thought when I was reading a follow on from the previous book, which was more gruesome, but it is full of twists and turns.
December 28, 2025
Enjoying this series
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
December 30, 2021
Fantastic read
Another brilliant book by Mike Grist, Christopher Wren at his best, can’t wait for book 8. Thoroughly recommend this book.
Another brilliant book by Mike Grist, Christopher Wren at his best, can’t wait for book 8. Thoroughly recommend this book.
February 9, 2022
Intriguing storyline with surprising plot twists. Dynamic characters.
March 22, 2022
Brilliant series, Looking forward to the next installment!!
April 23, 2025
Good Series
This is just a continuation of the series, I've enjoyed all the books so far a d will continue to read to read the rest.
This is just a continuation of the series, I've enjoyed all the books so far a d will continue to read to read the rest.
July 19, 2022
Excellent book. I enjoy this author and his stories. Just ordered his newest one in this series.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews