A deadly assassin wants peace. But first, he must find closure.
Confucius "if you seek revenge, dig two graves."
Adrian Hell will need a lot more than that.
After the traumatic events in San Francisco, Adrian feels his time as a hitman is coming to an end. But before he can put this life behind him, he must confront the man who killed his Wilson Trent — a powerful crime boss, considered untouchable by both sides of the law.
With his best friend, Josh Winters, by his side, Adrian embarks on a crusade of violence to tear down the empire Trent built on the bones of his wife and daughter. But his increasingly reckless behavior makes Josh question whether he really wants to bury the past… or if he simply no longer wants a future.
This gritty, violent tale pays homage to classic revenge thrillers like Kill Bill and John Wick . It shows you how far someone is willing to go to avenge the people they’ve lost. When it’s over, you’ll find yourself how far would you go?
I would like to put it out there first that I am not a big fan of First person POV, very few people do it well in my opinion. Secondly, I have not read any of the previous books before reading this one.
That said, I certainly had no problems with following the story towards it's fast-paced ending. However, this pace is often disrupted by grammar errors, even outright missing words throughout that while not glaringly obvious...makes me not a happy reader. I guess this is one of the woes of being self-published, but these errors makes it feel very unprofessional for a published book.
As some reviewers have already mentioned these problems, hopefully the author has fixed these issues in the following sequels. I certainly have no problems with the story itself, the author's knowledge of weapons and fighting weaves an exciting story, while also leaving just enough clues for a sequel leaves me with mixed feelings.
For future readers, my advice is that if you can get past what I consider to be sacrilegious in a published book...you can probably enjoy yourself, by reading fast enough to ignore these problems.
A good story that was a wholly enjoyable read. My only negative? Adrian would never be without his guns or other weapons, least of all knowing everyone was after him, would definitely not enter a clearly breached room unarmed, and would definitely not let anyone in there remain unsearched, no matter how pretty they were!! However, those points aside, it's an excellent story full of its characteristic violence, thrills and spills, and I loved it, especially the continued development of the relationship between Josh and Adrian too. Can't wait for book 4!
Above average action thriller until about Chapter 30, when the storyline and dialogue begin to stretch the imagination. Even forgiving the use of a silly plot device, the number of capture/escapes grew tiresome. And how can everyone have so much to say during the climatic moment?
Not a bad book. Good easy read. However it can get annoying when reading because of the misuse of words in the wrong places or context or the fact that words are missing all together to disrupt the flow of sentences.
Wow, I can say that I was not ready for the level of action and excitement that was delivered in the third installment of the Adrian Hell series. “The Last Bullet” was an audiobook that kept my attention from start to finish, and everywhere between. This tale had more twists than the past ones in the series, and I can say that I really could sense the rage that revenge causes and the mistakes that happen when you are so narrowly focused. This series is the premiere work of James P. Sumner and I can say that I have enjoyed them quite a bit. What makes the story even better is that it is narrated by Gary Bennett, a rather prolific and veteran of audiobook narration. He has voiced some of my favorite characters, yes, each time I hear his voice it never sounds routine or the same. This audiobook, and the entire series, provides a well-rounded story that is loaded with action and thrills. If you like your listens to be on the gritty noir side of the spectrum, you will not go wrong with this latest installment in the series. Well worth the listen.
The story opens with a requested personal hit as our main character is an assassin for hire. This request turns into more a tedious project that leads our character on quite a different path. What appears to be a simple request to off a known wife beater, quickly devolves into something that could completely turn the luck of Adrian and potentially even be life threating. What was a bit different in this story from the previous in the series is that Josh is in the field with our main character. I have always seen him more of an agent Q, from the James Bond series, sitting in his lair helping from behind the scenes. However, here we have him front and center to the action. I liked that. The story pivots and we see just how revenge can cause a logical person to begin making mistakes. Our character often felt as if he was invulnerable, but now we begin to see he is vulnerable and has growing chinks in his armor. This is because of the personal nature of his new task and his mind is clouded by the anger and revenge.
I found the writing in this third audiobook in the series to be more detailed and provided more background information from the previous ones. Here we are given some flashbacks to allow the listener to better know the main character and feel his pain. I also enjoyed the many references to music of the time and that every mission needed to have music as well. Although it is often vintage songs, they brought memories back to me. The level of gun knowledge and technology also was evident in this audiobook. Either the author has this from previous work experience or has performed some in depth research into this subject matter for his writing. The previous stories had some moral decision making by our main character choose which was often easy, but this one felt like such choices were heaver and weightier on Adrian. For some reason the consequences seemed like they would be harder to accept and swallow, even for a trained killer. Will this be the last of our character’s adventures, you will have to listen to find out.
The audiobook’s narration is done by one of my favorite narrators, Gary Bennett. As I said earlier, he has voiced some of my favorite characters, and this series is no exception. The audio is crisp and clear. I do not recall any pops, clicks, background noise, etc. while listening. The signs of an expert in his field. Even his ability to properly voice female characters so that they do not sound like a chipmunk or baritone is often welcomed. This is a skill that takes much time and practice to perfect. I recommend picking up any of his works as his voice is easy to listen to and he provide a means of bringing all the characters in a tale to life.
For parents and younger listeners, I have to say up front that this story is not written for younger audiences. It contains a fair amount of foul language and adult themes such as drugs, sexual topics, and quite graphic violence. I would recommend it be listened to by more mature individuals.
In summary, for the third tale in the series, I can see that the author and characters have matured over time. This story seemed to have more background information and moral decisions with meaning than I recall from the previous ones. No question that the narration is solid and pleasant to listen to. If you enjoy that noir genre and action-packed adventure, I suggest you pick up the stories and give them a listen.
One Last Bullet is the third installment in the Adrian Hell series, and without a doubt, it stands as the pinnacle of the series so far. James P. Sumner has truly outdone himself with this book, delivering a roller-coaster of emotions, a riveting revenge narrative, and an unforgettable journey that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
One of the highlights of the book is the fulfillment of the long-awaited revenge story. Throughout the series, readers have been tantalized with hints of impending retribution, and finally, in One Last Bullet, it explodes into action. Sumner’s skillful storytelling weaves together multiple plot threads, delivering a masterfully constructed revenge narrative that left me feeling both satisfied and emotionally invested.
The tension in this book is insane. Several times, just when I thought the story was approaching its climax, Sumner threw in surprising twists and turns, extending the suspense for hours of reading pleasure. This ability to hold onto tension for an extended period showcases Sumner’s talent as a writer and keeps readers utterly engrossed in the narrative.
Adrian Hell is known for his practicality and resourcefulness, but in this installment, he veers from his typical path due to the deeply personal nature of the vengeance he seeks. This makes him more vulnerable and human, allowing readers to connect with him deeper. The addition of Josh being in person (instead of being near Hell with his Winnebago) is a stroke of brilliance. Josh sometimes provides much-needed comic relief, alleviating the plot’s intensity, and serves as the voice of reason, grounding Hell amidst the chaos.
One Last Bullet delves into fascinating territory that will captivate readers. For fear of spoiling too much, I can’t dive any further into the plot details, the twists, and revelations in this book are astonishing and keep me guessing at every turn. The narrative unfolds in unexpected ways, and the emotional depth of the characters makes this a truly immersive experience.
As a reader, I’m left eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series (I had to look it up, there appears to be ten books in the series at the time of writing – with three of them being available as an audiobook). The book’s conclusion hints at exciting possibilities, especially concerning a character who ends up in the hospital near the end of One Last Bullet. I can’t help but wonder how their fate will influence the future of Adrian Hell and the direction the story will take.
One Last Bullet is a tour de force in the Adrian Hell series. It surpasses its predecessors with its gripping revenge narrative, expertly maintained tension, and intriguing character development. James P. Sumner has crafted a masterpiece that will undoubtedly leave readers craving more. This book is a must-read for fans of the series and anyone who enjoys a thrilling and emotionally charged tale of vengeance.
Fw!! Man what a story. Just what I had expected to be from James Sumner. Adrian Hell is on the road for revenge. To kill his biggest enemey of life. And boy he has done it with quite a few twists and turns which are placed through out the book. I am big fan of Adrian Hell series and James Sumner had deliverd it Again. Loved everything of the story. Though its story of revenge, it never felt for a spilt second to go out of the track. This book has everything to offer as action, drama, and emotion that too of a Man who is known as the best in the business of contract killing. Long Live the Adrian Hell!!
I've read many reviews that say "you can't put it down" !! I don't know about the other books, but I know that was very true for this book for me!! There wasn't a great deal of 'mystery' about what Adrian and Josh intended to do (no puzzle to solve), but still a great, believable and exciting path toward that end !!!
I want more, James !! And Thanks Again for allowing me to "ride along" !!!
Another actioned packed read from start to finish. Lots of different characters to deal with along the way. I will now start to read book number 4, Deadly Intent. I am really enjoying this series. A big thank you to the author, James P Sumner and from me another well deserved 5 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I really like the main character and his former special services partner in crime, however in this latest installment the body count of victims including police officers realy stacks up making the ot slightly implausible.
This is the second time of reading these books for some reason i didn't rate or comment on them .They are a great readwith never a dull moment Jake and Adrian work soo well together and balance each other and light humour love them .
Making the unbelievable believable is fine writing! Throwing in tons of gunplay and blood makes this book come alive. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
I love this series! Adrian Hell is a great character: talented, funny, confident, and ruthless. His buddy Josh is equally amusing and confident, but with tech and (usually ) behind the scenes. I have about 6 more books in the series and looking forward to them
"One Last Bullet" is the third book in the Adrian Hell thriller series, the story of a U.S Military Ex-Black Op who later becomes a hit-man for hire as a new trade. "One Last Bullet" tells the tale of Adrian Hell, formerly Adrian Hughes, returning to the city of Pittsburgh after eight years to seek revenge on mob boss Wilson Trent for the murder of his wife and daughter. I had hoped that the story would surpass the second book in the series and be just as good as the first. Well I got my wish. Old enemies return and deadly assassins rise in this heart-pounding thriller. The hunt is on for Adrian, guns blazing and bodies dropping by the count. He's out for Trent's blood and stops at nothing to destroy his world and leave his legacy up in flames. But in the dangerous game of prey/predator, is Adrian the predator or is he the prey? With everyone seeking their own deadly agendas, Adrian finds himself struggling between the husband and father simply seeking revenge and the cold-blooded assassin he's become. The story is emotional, shocking, and a down right heart-stopping ride. And it's even better with a British, smart-alack, genius of a best friend and a long lost brother-in-law to tag along and help even the score.
I can't wait to start reading the fourth book in the series. The Adrian Hell character is a real winner and has become one of my favorites, next to Mitch Rapp. Do yourself a favor and read this series, you will love it. If you are a Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, David Hagberg fan etc.. you will love these books. A very solid 4.5 Stars.. I'm downloading book number four after I write this. Do yourself a favor and award your self the guilty pleasure of reading this series, it is thoroughly entertaining and an escape from the daily grind.
Adrian Hell is back and looking to finish an old score with the man that took his family and started his life as Adrian Hell. Starts straight after the end of book two, with Adrian and Josh heading for Pittsburgh. Wilson Trent runs his business ruthlessly, but he is not prepared for Hell and the total destruction he brings! Good book again with nice interaction between Adrian and Josh. This book appears to bring closure for Adrian, so will be nice to see what direction James takes him in in the next installment.
The author has developed the characters very nicely. I enjoy the banter between Josh and Adrian as they take on the bad guys! In this book, more than others in the series, I found more typos and grammatical errors that should have been caught by a good editor. While these errors didn't take away from the story, they sometimes make the reader pause unnecessarily to solve the meaning of what's being said.
I love the Adrian Hell series. The action in this story is pretty much non ending with more twists than a package of ribbon candy! I love the way the author ties his story around each book. If you like action adventure and spy novels I highly recommend this book and the whole series.
Excellent story that continues the Adrian Hell series with closure of past wrongs. Unstoppable Adrian who takes you on his journey with him. Enjoyable read.
This was a very easy read. From start to finish it kept you turning pages. It was a shame he had to kill the woman assassin, they would have made a good team .
Author James P. Sumner is one diabolical human being. First, he gets readers rooting for an unrepentant, sarcastic hit man-for-hire named Adrian Hell (think Dexter on steroids with military training). Then he teams him with an amiable, equally sarcastic, British ex-SAS soldier/cybertechie named Josh Winters, who shares Adrian's love of heavy metal rock and a good fight. Reading the exploits of this dynamic duo has given me many pleasurable hours of laughs, truly evil villains and lots of really good action.
Now, with Book #3 in the Adrian Hell series, Sumner has pulled out all the stops to give the reader a seriously twisted thriller that will have you emotions whip-sawing from humor to heartache to relief to pity. And that is only in one chapter! That heart-stopping chapter comes in the middle of the book and sets up two epic confrontations -- one with a criminal who has battled with Adrian in Books 1 and 2, and one with the man who inflicted a personal hell on Adrian years ago and caused him to become the Adrian Hell he is today.
Folks, it doesn't get any better than this. (I wish I could give it more stars.) But, in all honesty, you should read Books 1 and 2 before you read this one. They're very reasonably priced and you need that build-up to get the real psychological "bang for your buck" that is found in this book. You've been warned -- now go get this book and be prepared to have your mind blown!