Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Alex Mason #7

Dead Man Talking

Rate this book
THE ROOT OF ALL POWER IS VIOLENCE...

Multiple time USA TODAY & Amazon 5-million copy bestselling authors DAVID ARCHER and BLAKE BANNER have combined forces to create one hell of a thriller series! Saul Epstein was used to trouble. When you’re the world’s most successful investigative journalist, and you devote your life to exposing the crimes of the great and the powerful, you learn to expect trouble. That’s why Saul was a recluse, that’s why he had no intimate circle, no close friends… So one question facing Alex Mason and Captain Aila Gallin was, who was it who entered Saul’s apartment like an old friend and shot him in the face at pointblank range without flinching – just like a pro? The other, the one ODIN needed answered yesterday, was where was the documentary he was making about the weaponizing of nano-technology and genetic engineering? The one he claimed would overturn the constitution and destroy the military-industrial complex forever - the one that was about to trigger a coup d’état in Washington DC, and another in London. Their search will take Mason and Gallin from DC to London, New York, remotest Cornwall and the wilds of the Yorkshire moors – and to the terrifying truth that in our fragile democracies, the root of all power is still violence…

246 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 14, 2022

1395 people are currently reading
186 people want to read

About the author

David Archer

190 books504 followers
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

David Archer was born and raised in Bakersfield, California. He is a fiction author and novelist, writing in the mysteries and thrillers genre. His approach to writing is to hit deep, keep you entertained, and leave you wanting MORE with every turn of the page. He writes mysteries, thrillers, and suspense novels, all of which are primed to get your heart pumping.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
2,725 (58%)
4 stars
1,425 (30%)
3 stars
428 (9%)
2 stars
66 (1%)
1 star
32 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for April.
478 reviews28 followers
November 3, 2024
This is Book 1 of The Case Files of Hailey and Stone.

Completed in time for Black History Month UK 2024, this is a very different kind of supernatural thriller.

First of all, there are a lot of historical references there which must have taken Mark a great deal of time to research and just get right. I loved this as I really enjoy historical fiction from this time!

The introduction of George and the mystery surrounding his disappearance - we have secrets, we have lies, we have conspiracy, and it is all jammed into 464 pages. You are absolutely never bored!

We follow Cameron Stone and Maya Hailey as they race to uncover the truth with strong powers, working against them.

Mark has created 2 very strong characters here that are relatable and believable, and I enjoyed seeing them getting to know each other and I also enjoyed getting to know them!

I can't wait to see where Mark will take us next!
94 reviews1 follower
December 17, 2022
Those who have followed the paths of Alex Mason, a secret operative, and Captain Gallin, a member of Musad, will be happy to learn that their paths cross once again. With the world order, as we know it, threatened by advancements in technology and scientific breakthroughs, Sir John and Nero elicit their help, but both Mason and Gallin soon learn that they can only trust each other in a game of power that has united masked forces. With the work of a journalist, Saul, that ignites the plot that propels Mason and Gallin into action, the reader becomes invested in the outcome. This story mimics current events that have become a peril to culture as we know it.

For those who are not familiar with the Alex Mason series, this book can be read on its own. Be prepared for some serious consideration of where society is headed after you read this one.
Profile Image for John A. Sillasen.
359 reviews4 followers
January 1, 2023
A Total Win for Espionage Readers and Fans of Archer, Blake, Mason & Gallin

No, that's not a law firm. The latter two are characters that have been prominent in many of the Alex Mason adventures - especially with those of that include the indomitable Captain Aiilin Gallin. This tale involves a documentary that never sees the light of day. Its world renowned reporter, researcher and American living in England is murdered, his research never to be found and the group of suspects both very small and highly unlikely. Worse is the subject matter was to expose the deep state and cull millions through genetic nanotechnology. ODIN UK contacts us arm and our two heroes are deployed.
6 reviews
May 24, 2023
Should have been called "Much Ado About Nothing"!
Huge concern about imminent coups in UK and USA by the military/industrial complex and then find out it is not scheduled for 10 years!
Far-fetched. We know Alex Mason is good, but killing at least 6 armed Southern Hemisphere mercenaries with an axe beggars belief.
Sir John was happy to let Alex and Aila get suffocated to death with plastic bags over their heads, and he is one of the goodies?
Alex spends his life killing baddies and witnessing many deaths, but he could not tell Nero's death was faked???
The authors need a decent proof reader. There are a lot of typos/errors in the text.
Profile Image for LooseBoots .
880 reviews6 followers
December 14, 2022
My goodness what a thrilling ride that was.
I literally spent most of the day reading this. Fortunately it rained all day, so it worked in my favour.
Alex is way better than Bond or Bourne and so exciting to read. His collaborations with Gallin is so beautiful. They gel together so well, figuratively.
They are really up against it on this one and you wonder how they can possibly solve the mystery with the cards there are dealt.
If you want a story that has you glued by the seat of your pants, this is the one.
Outstanding writing of David and Blake.
100% recommendations from me.
Profile Image for Bonnie Hollingsworth.
13 reviews
December 16, 2022
Dead Man Talking is Alex Mason at his best, his worst and most emotional!

Every ODIN story is thrilling but this one is mind blowing! Mason and Gallin are unlikely partners and totally unbeatable. The plot, characters and surprise ending will keep you guessing throughout the entire book.
This is a intriguing and Blake Banner/David Archer at their finest hour!
396 reviews3 followers
December 18, 2022
Accidental greed and chaos in all dimensions

The two main spies express great teamwork and problem solving, even when left out in the cold. The plot highlights contemporary attitudes of those who want to dominate and cleanse the earth. Commentary on present leadership makes me chuckle. Two gets you twenty I will enjoy the next episode in March 2023.
16 reviews
January 13, 2023
I like this author! Dry descriptive writing with colorful details that bring life to the text. Interesting main characters with very realistic dialogue between all the characters. And topped off with a tale filled with lots of unexpected twists and turns! Buy it! You will like it! Excellent hard to put down, read!
131 reviews3 followers
January 22, 2023
Alex & Gallon are back together to solve another mystery.

Alex is called to London to solve a mystery for the UK version of Odin. An investigative reporter has been found shot and his highly sensitive report/story is missing. They must find the killer & story before they themselves are taken out for finding the truth.
87 reviews9 followers
February 4, 2023
This is BY FAR the best book in the series!!

This series has always been readable, while nothing I would ever recommend. This book shows considerably more effort, and is much more engrossing than the previous two. The dialogue is fantastic, the plot is well done, and I am very much impressed. Well Done!
112 reviews
May 2, 2024
As often seems to be the case, the title is both fitting and witty. As I wend my way through the Alex Mason series, I find new aspects to acclaim. Book #7 continues to present thought-provoking current topics, e.g., technology's attraction to those who hunger for power. The novel's suspense and the main characters' titillating relationship make a good read!
Profile Image for frances  cook.
5 reviews
July 30, 2024
Where is Saul's manuscript?

This is the question that James Mason is trying to answer through out the book. What is this manuscript and where is it? We are invited into more mystery, more fights, and more questions as we read this novel. If you like suspense, action, and finally answers you will love to read this book.
Profile Image for Alicia.
29 reviews1 follower
November 20, 2025
Alas, I have but one complaint...

Another great book in the series.

The only singular complaint I have is that I wish the authors would not rush through the climax. The books are well written and well thought out, up until they arrive at the climax, and then it is hastily written.

Aside from that, I've thoroughly enjoyed this series.
Onto the next...
53 reviews1 follower
December 16, 2022
a bit convoluted but fun

Writing editing spelling is much improved. Reliving some of the areas described enhances the story. I live near DC and see all kinds of weird stuff. Makes one wonder
2 reviews
December 22, 2022
I just finished the end of the series and was ready to read the next!darn!!*
Great characters, always interesting adventures,none stop excitement. The political humor is amazing, very topical, on point. Keep them coming I'm a big fan now.
89 reviews
December 26, 2022
Deep State

Feels like a quick read it that's what you are after. Feel not as much action as other books in series, few loose ends. Mason has a strong passion for nice cars. Hurry up and get together already 👩‍❤️‍👩
12 reviews
January 4, 2023
awesome!

My favorite spy, action, political thriller series right now. Fun & easy reading. Alex mason, the Top intelligence operator from America kicks serious ass with his equally badass Mossad partner. This book had my favorite action killing sequence out the series. - the axe!
19 reviews
January 6, 2023
The storyline is quite complicated, but it's definitely one that's hard to put down and will keep you guessing until the end. And then there's the ending - not what expected! I was a teeny bit disappointed, but maybe that's because I didn't want the book to end! Looking forward to the next one.
694 reviews4 followers
January 7, 2023
A real head scratcher

The duo works a tough case, suffers a tragic loss, gets the bad guys. There are so many twists and turns it captivates you and keeps you reading. A well thought out story.
2 reviews
January 19, 2023
I liked it.

It kept my interest the whole time. I must admit, I thought the end of the book was somewhat hard to believe the way it was handled. Over all, I enjoyed it very much. Well worth the time to read it.
403 reviews2 followers
January 23, 2023
Outstanding!

This is the absolute best Mason book I have read! Hard to put down as between political corruption, cheating, the Cabal and governments involved...one solution after another kept coming to mind.
Profile Image for Scott Madere.
71 reviews1 follower
February 10, 2023
Fantastic

This is an absolutely fantastic series of to Heroic agents. captain's Mason and Gallin are dynamic together getting to the truth no matter what. They are explosive together and can't wait for the next book in this series!! Please keep them coming!!!
179 reviews
March 5, 2023
Excellent!

I loved this zig zag of a story. It was wild and crazy. Everything that happened was unpredictable. I am satisfied with the ending. I am looking forward to the final book in the series.
12 reviews
March 23, 2023
Great read!

Love these characters! Was having a difficult time defy how the next book would take off without Nero. Good to know he will be there. Patiently awaiting number 8.
Blake Banner and David Archer make for really good reading material!

Profile Image for yvette grant.
27 reviews
April 23, 2023
This book is happening now!

I love that this book happens in real time, with the names of current political leaders and CEOs making the scenario much more credible. I didn't realize how attached I am to these characters until the reading the events in this book. Love this!!!
428 reviews8 followers
April 25, 2023
CC1

Excellent Odin Mason chapter. Not only was Nero 2 steps ahead but he just needed Mason and Yalin to follow everything through. Sir John was trump card. He played both sides and really was needed at end . Great story and excellent plot. 10 stars plus!!!!! Thanks, Carl Clause
27 reviews
July 11, 2023
Excellent read.

Number seven in this series was quite refreshing. A new plot line that did not involve the Russians. Interesting twists and turns that did not resolve until the last couple of pages. Good read.
118 reviews
July 27, 2023
Another wild ride

Great read once again, crazy story but just enough to make you wonder if it could really happen. Alex Mason has another wild ride, lots of twists and turns in this book. Can't wait to read book 8.
2 reviews
August 16, 2023
time well spent

Love your books, especially this series. Love the banter, nearly had a sulk when you bumped nero off. You are my best friend.
I recommend your work, sadly noone seems to read these days.
I am Keith.




49 reviews
November 19, 2023
Makes you think

The ultimate conspiracy story that winds around like a handmade tapestry. The good part is that it ends with life being put back into perspective. Not all happily as life for better or worse goes on, again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.