The Assassin

by Ross Barber

Cockney schoolboy, Johnny Feltham, has only ever wanted one he longs to be a soldier. At 18, he enlists in the British Army. His positive attitude and potential soon catch his commanding officer's eye. When he says, "The SAS are looking for men of your caliber, Feltham. If you choose to apply, I guarantee you my full support," Feltham grabs the chance. Six months later he is one of the few in the corps to make it through the rigors of 'assessment'. He flourishes in the SAS and cheats fate until 1995, where he is wounded in the left knee by shrapnel during a mission. He recovers 98% of the mobility in the knee, feels great and cannot wait to return to active duty. To his dismay, he discovers less than 100% does not cut it in the SAS. He is subsequently discharged from his beloved 'Regiment'. Disenchanted with a military that has trained him to be "an expert killer - a killer who executes innocent women and children - when it suits them," he gets a Green Card and travels to New York City . There, he sets up his own security franchise. One evening he is visited by a shady-looking little guy who works for the mysterious Mr. Smith. Smith offers Feltham, "A contract of unspecified duration with unlimited remuneration". Feltham accepts and thereupon begins his new career as highly-paid, specialist killer for hire. Feltham's lethal exploits in and beyond New York City soon earns him the title of 'The Assassin". He is ruthlessly pursued by the NYPD and FBI and is always one step ahead of them, until, after a series of bewildering twists and turns, fate intervenes...

356 pages, Paperback

First published November 30, 2005