What do you think?
Rate this book
Adrian Hell #8
Blowback
No matter how fast you run, the past will always catch you…
Two years have passed since the heartbreaking events in Thicker Than Blood, and Adrian has started a new life in Tokyo. Semi-retired and working low-level contracts to keep busy, he has finally found some semblance of peace.
One bullet can change everything…
When a twist of fate puts Adrian in the crosshairs of a Yakuza family, he’s forced to once again do what he does best to protect those closest to him. But he will soon realize that every action has consequences.
It’s the shot you don’t see coming that hurts the most…
A ghost from Adrian’s past is lurking in the shadows. As this spectre of vengeance emerges, he is forced to confront enemies both old and new. It’s a battle he wasn’t prepared for. It’s a war he cannot win.
Two years have passed since the heartbreaking events in Thicker Than Blood, and Adrian has started a new life in Tokyo. Semi-retired and working low-level contracts to keep busy, he has finally found some semblance of peace.
One bullet can change everything…
When a twist of fate puts Adrian in the crosshairs of a Yakuza family, he’s forced to once again do what he does best to protect those closest to him. But he will soon realize that every action has consequences.
It’s the shot you don’t see coming that hurts the most…
A ghost from Adrian’s past is lurking in the shadows. As this spectre of vengeance emerges, he is forced to confront enemies both old and new. It’s a battle he wasn’t prepared for. It’s a war he cannot win.
- GenresThriller
366 pages, Paperback
Published July 6, 2020
478 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 9, 2020
What a triumphant return of both Adrian Hell and his quick-witted author, James P. Sumner!! Adrian has been attempting to retire, living in Tokyo with best friend and co-worker in tough times, Ruby. But quiet life doesn't sit well with this former assassin, being the best in the world brought him lots of attention, mostly from those who want to end his reign and life. I was smiling brightly as I read the very beginning of this tale, Adrian and his uncanny spirit speak in a style only he can, pulling me into his life again immediately, using humor when others would look away!
A moment from the past is on it's way back with a vengeance..And Hell is about to take over Adrian's new life..The action is non-stop, with moments of emotional turmoil and moments to give into your inner beast, the Satan that helps in the hardest times. Adrian is rusty, getting older, and may not be ready for the onslaught heading his way,but he has Ruby beside him, and a few others he can count on that will try their best to stop the slaughter...
I have so missed this great character, and I am happy to tell you that both Adrian and his author hit this one OUT OF THE PARK!!!! Do you enjoy fantastic action, but a caring hero hiding underneath?? Come Meet Adrian Hell....
A moment from the past is on it's way back with a vengeance..And Hell is about to take over Adrian's new life..The action is non-stop, with moments of emotional turmoil and moments to give into your inner beast, the Satan that helps in the hardest times. Adrian is rusty, getting older, and may not be ready for the onslaught heading his way,but he has Ruby beside him, and a few others he can count on that will try their best to stop the slaughter...
I have so missed this great character, and I am happy to tell you that both Adrian and his author hit this one OUT OF THE PARK!!!! Do you enjoy fantastic action, but a caring hero hiding underneath?? Come Meet Adrian Hell....
July 7, 2020
WOW, WOW, WOW and well, just WOW!
Why have I never read a James P. Sumner book before???
Now, those of you who know me well might be thinking ‘why is she reading Book eight having not read the previous seven!?’ I know, I know, this is very unusual for me, but when James contacted me about reading an advance copy of Blowback I just couldn’t resist, and it does read perfectly well as a standalone, although I am obviously VERY curious to read the previous books to find out what I’ve been missing.
Now, where do I start?
There is SO much action in this book I’m not sure if I even breathed through most of it! Oh, my days! I’ve heard people say that when they retire, they find themselves busier than ever, but seriously…. Adrian Hell (awesome name by the way!) is certainly not enjoying a peaceful retirement. Then again, when you’re a famous assassin I guess it’s quite difficult to adjust to a quieter lifestyle!
I think I might have a little bit of a crush on Adrian Hell. Considering he is a hired killer he is extremely charismatic. He’s quite funny at times too and is obviously easy on the eye. His character reminds me of Dean Winchester in Supernatural and I can totally see Jensen Ackles as Adrian Hell. This series should be televised with Jensen in the lead role. I would be glued!!
I loved the relationship between Adrian and Ruby. It did warm my heart at times. Ruby is an awesome character. I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of her!
Ichiro was one of my favourite characters too. Loved him!
This book is so fast-paced and so hard to put down. Adrian’s past has come back to haunt him and both sides of the party are seeking revenge. This war is personal. Who will win?
This book is so brilliantly written. The story moves at breath-taking speed and it kept me well and truly on the edge of my seat. The epilogues are quite jaw-dropping and seriously left me hungry for more!
I just need to go back to book one now and start catching up with what I’ve missed. I do love it when I find a new series to devour. Especially one with a character like Adrian Hell. I can’t wait!
Many thanks to James P. Sumner for my advance copy of Blowback. In case it isn’t clear, I have absolutely LOVED it and I highly recommend to anyone and everyone!
Why have I never read a James P. Sumner book before???
Now, those of you who know me well might be thinking ‘why is she reading Book eight having not read the previous seven!?’ I know, I know, this is very unusual for me, but when James contacted me about reading an advance copy of Blowback I just couldn’t resist, and it does read perfectly well as a standalone, although I am obviously VERY curious to read the previous books to find out what I’ve been missing.
Now, where do I start?
There is SO much action in this book I’m not sure if I even breathed through most of it! Oh, my days! I’ve heard people say that when they retire, they find themselves busier than ever, but seriously…. Adrian Hell (awesome name by the way!) is certainly not enjoying a peaceful retirement. Then again, when you’re a famous assassin I guess it’s quite difficult to adjust to a quieter lifestyle!
I think I might have a little bit of a crush on Adrian Hell. Considering he is a hired killer he is extremely charismatic. He’s quite funny at times too and is obviously easy on the eye. His character reminds me of Dean Winchester in Supernatural and I can totally see Jensen Ackles as Adrian Hell. This series should be televised with Jensen in the lead role. I would be glued!!
I loved the relationship between Adrian and Ruby. It did warm my heart at times. Ruby is an awesome character. I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of her!
Ichiro was one of my favourite characters too. Loved him!
This book is so fast-paced and so hard to put down. Adrian’s past has come back to haunt him and both sides of the party are seeking revenge. This war is personal. Who will win?
This book is so brilliantly written. The story moves at breath-taking speed and it kept me well and truly on the edge of my seat. The epilogues are quite jaw-dropping and seriously left me hungry for more!
I just need to go back to book one now and start catching up with what I’ve missed. I do love it when I find a new series to devour. Especially one with a character like Adrian Hell. I can’t wait!
Many thanks to James P. Sumner for my advance copy of Blowback. In case it isn’t clear, I have absolutely LOVED it and I highly recommend to anyone and everyone!
September 2, 2021
Eight of nine in series, entertaining read
This is an entertaining series, as I have now read eight of the books, there are a few recurring irritating scenes that I often wonder why authors feel compelled to entertain.
While constantly reiterating that Adrian is the BEST assassin, he constantly gets himself into a situation where someone has bested him and has a gun to his head, forcing him to drop his weapons. Then, typically after being beaten to within an inch of life, he summons some reserve to ultimately save the day....
Then this constant thing with never having enough ammo.... Its irritating....
Well, all told, the series is entertaining and has kept the intrigue enough to read the entire series.... So, well done Sir, well done.
Thank you.
This is an entertaining series, as I have now read eight of the books, there are a few recurring irritating scenes that I often wonder why authors feel compelled to entertain.
While constantly reiterating that Adrian is the BEST assassin, he constantly gets himself into a situation where someone has bested him and has a gun to his head, forcing him to drop his weapons. Then, typically after being beaten to within an inch of life, he summons some reserve to ultimately save the day....
Then this constant thing with never having enough ammo.... Its irritating....
Well, all told, the series is entertaining and has kept the intrigue enough to read the entire series.... So, well done Sir, well done.
Thank you.
June 6, 2022
A fine example of escapism
An assassin with a heart? That's the twist. Adrian Hell is both sides of the same coin-both cold blooded killer and defender of the innocent. I would say the scenarios in this book are outlandish, but I don't know what's "normal" in the world of a hired killer.
Written in an entertaining manner. Characters were developed in a way that made me root for the good guys and hate the bad guys. Which is strange since the good guys are bad guys too!
An assassin with a heart? That's the twist. Adrian Hell is both sides of the same coin-both cold blooded killer and defender of the innocent. I would say the scenarios in this book are outlandish, but I don't know what's "normal" in the world of a hired killer.
Written in an entertaining manner. Characters were developed in a way that made me root for the good guys and hate the bad guys. Which is strange since the good guys are bad guys too!
June 9, 2022
Assassin
I have mixed feelings about this book. Overall i'd have to say that i enjoyed it. That said, i had to suspend disbelief on several occasions. For instance, this professional assassin doesn't think it's suspicious that a woman he doesn't know, runs into him twice in two days. And he seems to fly off the cuff way too much for a professional assassin. And while the author's writing style is generally good, he has a real problem with transitions, using spaces filled with dashes instead of using words. I would say if you like action and don't mind a little inconsistency, you'll enjoy this book.
I have mixed feelings about this book. Overall i'd have to say that i enjoyed it. That said, i had to suspend disbelief on several occasions. For instance, this professional assassin doesn't think it's suspicious that a woman he doesn't know, runs into him twice in two days. And he seems to fly off the cuff way too much for a professional assassin. And while the author's writing style is generally good, he has a real problem with transitions, using spaces filled with dashes instead of using words. I would say if you like action and don't mind a little inconsistency, you'll enjoy this book.
July 29, 2025
This is just a Great "Page Tuner" !!!
I've read other books by James P. Sumner and have always enjoyed his writing style. It's been an adventure to be "acquainted" with Adrian Hell (Great Name for what he does for a living!!). I'm really not certain how much more punishment his body will stand (as it seems that it takes a lot more time to recover !)
I also look forward to Ruby's involvement to be even greater in the next book !! I like her a lot as she seems to be a 'great balance' for Adrian ! (I must have skipped the book where Josh was 'taken out' !! I'll have to go back to catch that story !).
Keep up the great writing, I'm a fan !!!
I've read other books by James P. Sumner and have always enjoyed his writing style. It's been an adventure to be "acquainted" with Adrian Hell (Great Name for what he does for a living!!). I'm really not certain how much more punishment his body will stand (as it seems that it takes a lot more time to recover !)
I also look forward to Ruby's involvement to be even greater in the next book !! I like her a lot as she seems to be a 'great balance' for Adrian ! (I must have skipped the book where Josh was 'taken out' !! I'll have to go back to catch that story !).
Keep up the great writing, I'm a fan !!!
June 14, 2022
This was my introduction to James P Sumner's work and I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I could not put it down. It challenges reality but that is why I read fiction. Sumner is able to bring his characters to life so that they pull you into the story. This book is not for the faint hearted. The main character is a likable assassin who engages in violence from the beginning to the end and is often on the receiving end of the violent actions of his enemies. I'm hooked and I am planning to read more in this series.
July 5, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed reading BLOWBACK: A THRILLER by James P. Sumner. Adrian Hell is the world's best assassin. A man that's indestructible! The story is compelling and held my interest from the very beginning. It is action-packed and full of surprises. I had to suspend my thoughts of reality in many of the fight scenes as he takes on overwhelming odds and escapes with minimal damage. This is the first book I've read by this author, and I have already purchased the next installment to see how he and Ruby handle retirement. Highly recommended.
June 30, 2020
An excellent assassin thriller with a great storyline and fantastic characters. Contains plenty of non-stop action, lots of suspense, and several twists. An edge of your seat thriller that was very hard to put down. The best Adrian Hell book yet. Highly recommended book/series by a very talented author. Ready for the next Adrian Hell adventure.
July 14, 2020
Hell is bad!
I have read all of James Summers books. My favorite is the Adrian Hell series. They are action packed and very humorous. They kinda remind me of a Marvel comics action read. After reading this newest edition #8 , I decided to start the series from the beginning . Please write #9.
I have read all of James Summers books. My favorite is the Adrian Hell series. They are action packed and very humorous. They kinda remind me of a Marvel comics action read. After reading this newest edition #8 , I decided to start the series from the beginning . Please write #9.
July 20, 2020
This latest book in the Adrian Hell series was an AWESOME read and definitely worth the wait! Full of drama, suspense, lots of fighting and even a touch of romance (without being soppy and gross!), it has all you need from an AH book and more. Absolutely loved it, and so looking forward to seeing what the author decides to do with the characters next - especially in light of the epilogues!!
August 11, 2020
Adrian Hell is back ! Yeah Baby ! And yes it is about time. I read this today in one sitting. I could not put it down. This book does not disappoint. It actually exceeded all expectations. Adrian is up to his usual tricks. But he let his guard down and now he is the hunted. Without Josh it is now just him and Ruby. And a new friend. Fabulous as always. This is a great series ! One of my favorites.
October 31, 2021
Adrian Hell returns, it's been two years and he has relocated to Tokyo with Ruby. Trying to live the quiet life, he ends up on the radar of the Yakuza and a person from his past. Beaten and humiliated in front of the world, Adrian must go to war to protect Ruby and himself. Fast paced, with Adrian at his OTT best.
July 17, 2022
BLOWBACK by James Sumner
This is the 3rd or 4th book involving Adrian Hell that I have read. Although this book is quite interesting and fast-paced, somehow, this book was not as exciting as the previous ones. The story is cast in Tokyo and chronicles how Adrian Hell escapes a hit on his life and how he and Ruby take down one of the two competing Yakuza groups.
This is the 3rd or 4th book involving Adrian Hell that I have read. Although this book is quite interesting and fast-paced, somehow, this book was not as exciting as the previous ones. The story is cast in Tokyo and chronicles how Adrian Hell escapes a hit on his life and how he and Ruby take down one of the two competing Yakuza groups.
July 11, 2020
A great read
Thank you Mr James P Summer for writing this book l love Adrian Hell books i am glad you are keeping Josh in it even if is only in Adrianas mind and now he has Ruby it makes it even better can't wait for the next one
Thank you Mr James P Summer for writing this book l love Adrian Hell books i am glad you are keeping Josh in it even if is only in Adrianas mind and now he has Ruby it makes it even better can't wait for the next one
July 21, 2020
He's back and just as badass as ever.
Adrian Hell is the ultimate anti hero, total killer with a questionable conscience.
This is one of the most adrenaline loaded books available just now.
Buy it or regret it.
Adrian Hell is the ultimate anti hero, total killer with a questionable conscience.
This is one of the most adrenaline loaded books available just now.
Buy it or regret it.
August 6, 2020
What a wild ride!
To the author, I say, Welcome back!!
This story moves fast and furious. Adrian's sense of humor is on full display as he takes on some very bad actors! Anxious for the sequel!
To the author, I say, Welcome back!!
This story moves fast and furious. Adrian's sense of humor is on full display as he takes on some very bad actors! Anxious for the sequel!
Read
October 27, 2020Another winner
I had a hard time putting this book down. It is another winner in the Adrian He'll series. I am looking forward to the next one. I do not think you will be disapproved .
I had a hard time putting this book down. It is another winner in the Adrian He'll series. I am looking forward to the next one. I do not think you will be disapproved .
November 1, 2020
Sumner is back and in top form.
There are certain authors and series that a reader will wait for ... for as long as it takes. Adrian Hell is one such series. I have never been disappointed in an Adrian Hell adventure. Can't wait for the next book in this series.
There are certain authors and series that a reader will wait for ... for as long as it takes. Adrian Hell is one such series. I have never been disappointed in an Adrian Hell adventure. Can't wait for the next book in this series.
May 30, 2022
Blow
This book was a blow to my sense of decorum and decency. It would be nice if in attempting to write people would use language that was not offensive or crass. No more of this for me.
This book was a blow to my sense of decorum and decency. It would be nice if in attempting to write people would use language that was not offensive or crass. No more of this for me.
June 4, 2022
Adrian Hell is at it again. He is rough and tough. This book, like all in this series is very fast paced and action packed. Great cast of characters too. It is a book you do not want to put down once you start. Great read!
August 16, 2022
Another 5 Stars
A great read from start to finish. Every book is different but equally as enjoyable. Lots of action. I am looking forward to starting the 9th book, The Devil You Know. A huge pat on the back for the author James P Sumner. A well deserved 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
A great read from start to finish. Every book is different but equally as enjoyable. Lots of action. I am looking forward to starting the 9th book, The Devil You Know. A huge pat on the back for the author James P Sumner. A well deserved 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
April 7, 2023
The series with Adrian Hell is a compelling read
The series with Adrian Hell is a compelling read that is hard to put down once you get started. Even though he is an assassin, you can't help but feel like he is what we need in society.
The series with Adrian Hell is a compelling read that is hard to put down once you get started. Even though he is an assassin, you can't help but feel like he is what we need in society.
July 7, 2020
One Hell of a comeback!
Adrian is back in the style all his own! A great plot with twists and turns, rampaging through the underworld of Tokyo to a suspenseful climax!
Adrian is back in the style all his own! A great plot with twists and turns, rampaging through the underworld of Tokyo to a suspenseful climax!
July 8, 2020
Thank you for the free Arc
Wow
Fabulous book
This author is amazing
Totally loved it
Wow
Fabulous book
This author is amazing
Totally loved it
July 17, 2020
Sorely missed
Love the brutal way this assassin leaves his victims....dead..
Nothing nice..it’s a cruel world.
So already looking forward to seeing Mr. Hell.
Love the brutal way this assassin leaves his victims....dead..
Nothing nice..it’s a cruel world.
So already looking forward to seeing Mr. Hell.
December 6, 2020
Been a while coming.
Yet another fabulous Adrian Hell book from James. P. Summer. Takes you away from the current problems in the world in one book.
Yet another fabulous Adrian Hell book from James. P. Summer. Takes you away from the current problems in the world in one book.
June 5, 2022
Review
I loved this story. It had lots of twists along with some pretty funny moments. That girl is some hard to kill. Gotta read the next one now.
I loved this story. It had lots of twists along with some pretty funny moments. That girl is some hard to kill. Gotta read the next one now.
June 21, 2022
I think Adrian Hell needs a prolonged vacation after everything that happened in this book. Wow! I could barely put it down - I rate it 5 stars.
July 1, 2022
What a ride! James Bond style.
The action never stops and is completely believable. Great characters, interesting sites and a surprising plot. Enjoy it! I sure did.
The action never stops and is completely believable. Great characters, interesting sites and a surprising plot. Enjoy it! I sure did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews