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Joe Hunter #2
Judgment and Wrath
“Hilton is a sparkling new crime fiction talent.”
—Peter James, author of Looking Good Dead
“Lee Child’s Jack Reacher could have some worthy competition.”
— Booklist
Following the success of his explosive debut thriller Dead Men’s Dust (“A dose of pure rocket fuel,” —Christopher Reich), author Matt Hilton delivers BIG once again with Judgment & Wrath . Ex-military operative-turned-problem solver for hire Joe Hunter is back—and this time he finds himself the prey of a relentless manhunter and targeted for death after rescuing a young couple from the ruthless assassin. Hilton’s Judgment & Wrath starts fast and keeps accelerating—and fans of Lee Child, Robert Crais, and Michael Connelly will discover they’ve got a new author and a new hero to eagerly follow into the dangerous shadows.
—Peter James, author of Looking Good Dead
“Lee Child’s Jack Reacher could have some worthy competition.”
— Booklist
Following the success of his explosive debut thriller Dead Men’s Dust (“A dose of pure rocket fuel,” —Christopher Reich), author Matt Hilton delivers BIG once again with Judgment & Wrath . Ex-military operative-turned-problem solver for hire Joe Hunter is back—and this time he finds himself the prey of a relentless manhunter and targeted for death after rescuing a young couple from the ruthless assassin. Hilton’s Judgment & Wrath starts fast and keeps accelerating—and fans of Lee Child, Robert Crais, and Michael Connelly will discover they’ve got a new author and a new hero to eagerly follow into the dangerous shadows.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published November 9, 2010
37 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
About the author
Matt Hilton
87 books240 followersMatt Hilton worked for twenty-two years in private security and the police force in Cumbria. He is a 4th Dan blackbelt and coach in Ju-Jitsu. He lives in Cumbria with his wife and son.
Matt is the author of the best-selling Joe Hunter thriller series, as well as standalone horror thrillers and short stories that have appeared in a number of collections and anthologies. Matt's first novel - Dead Men's Dust - was a Sunday Times best-seller and was shortlisted for the ITW New Novel Award 2009.
Matt is the author of the best-selling Joe Hunter thriller series, as well as standalone horror thrillers and short stories that have appeared in a number of collections and anthologies. Matt's first novel - Dead Men's Dust - was a Sunday Times best-seller and was shortlisted for the ITW New Novel Award 2009.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 27, 2016
PROTAGONIST: Joe Hunter, former military operative
SETTING: Florida
SERIES: #2 of 2
RATING: 2.25
Joe Hunter is a former military operative who takes on freelance assignments to solve people’s problems. He has been hired by Richard Dean to snatch his daughter, Marianne, away from her rich but abusive boyfriend, Bradley Jorgenson. But Joe soon encounters a glitch—Marianne is quite happy with Bradley and unwilling to leave him. As Joe soon discovers, there is someone that wants Bradley dead. All Joe cares about is protecting Marianne; he has no qualms about leaving Bradley to his fate. But then he stumbles across some information that leads him to believe that Bradley may not be quite the bad guy he has been painted to be.
The contract killer is a psychopath who has taken on the name of a fallen angel, “Dantalion”. In reality, he is a serial killer and not a hit man. As is usual in these kinds of books, he has Mommy issues and various quirks and superstitions. He has arrived at a complicated way of making numerical equations for each person that he has killed and enters the information in a book that he keeps chained to himself at all times. He is physically unattractive and been shunned for his entire life, yada yada yada.
Hilton does an excellent job of writing action scenes. Frankly, other than that, I can’t find much to recommend this book. It is decidedly average. The prose is clunky, and the plot derivative. It’s hard to make a unique serial killer. It is completely incredible that this lone individual could kill masses of people at securely guarded locations. Then there’s Joe’s sidekick, Rink, who could probably qualify to play Superman; he’s pretty much indestructible.
If you are the kind of person who uses blurbs to determine whether you will read a book or not, exercise caution with this book! “Firmly in the mold of Lee Child’s Jack Reacher” [Daily Mail]—not even close! Joe Hunter isn’t worthy of carrying Jack Reacher’s toothbrush.
SETTING: Florida
SERIES: #2 of 2
RATING: 2.25
Joe Hunter is a former military operative who takes on freelance assignments to solve people’s problems. He has been hired by Richard Dean to snatch his daughter, Marianne, away from her rich but abusive boyfriend, Bradley Jorgenson. But Joe soon encounters a glitch—Marianne is quite happy with Bradley and unwilling to leave him. As Joe soon discovers, there is someone that wants Bradley dead. All Joe cares about is protecting Marianne; he has no qualms about leaving Bradley to his fate. But then he stumbles across some information that leads him to believe that Bradley may not be quite the bad guy he has been painted to be.
The contract killer is a psychopath who has taken on the name of a fallen angel, “Dantalion”. In reality, he is a serial killer and not a hit man. As is usual in these kinds of books, he has Mommy issues and various quirks and superstitions. He has arrived at a complicated way of making numerical equations for each person that he has killed and enters the information in a book that he keeps chained to himself at all times. He is physically unattractive and been shunned for his entire life, yada yada yada.
Hilton does an excellent job of writing action scenes. Frankly, other than that, I can’t find much to recommend this book. It is decidedly average. The prose is clunky, and the plot derivative. It’s hard to make a unique serial killer. It is completely incredible that this lone individual could kill masses of people at securely guarded locations. Then there’s Joe’s sidekick, Rink, who could probably qualify to play Superman; he’s pretty much indestructible.
If you are the kind of person who uses blurbs to determine whether you will read a book or not, exercise caution with this book! “Firmly in the mold of Lee Child’s Jack Reacher” [Daily Mail]—not even close! Joe Hunter isn’t worthy of carrying Jack Reacher’s toothbrush.
July 1, 2017
Action packed and riveting, yes! However, not as enthralling as the first in the series. Additionally, my suspension of disbelief was overtaxed. One can accept the unbelievable if it is just that: possibly believable. No can do for this novel. A civilian running point in an FBI raid? No way. Surviving -and physically functioning - after a serious( deadly) car crash and fall from a 100 foot bridge? No way. Another frustrating element: no explanation how the client found the killer or the middle man. An everyday businessman doesn't naturally know how to go about doing so! Also, no explanation concerning the etymology of the systematic mathematical rantings of the killer. There are other issues, but these are the most glaring. Still received a 3 star because , as stated, it was action packed and kept me up all night!
October 12, 2011
If you dig the larger than life male action heroes, then Judgment and Wrath should be right in your wheelhouse. On occasion, I like the escapism as I did here. Tough guy Joe Hunter and his pal Rink are a pair of ex-commando partners who're hired to do troubleshooting for their clients. This time around they take on a religious nut job who calls himself Dantalion. There are lots of chase scenes between the stuff blowing up, and the body count rises fast. At times, you may roll your eyes at Hunter's amazing exploits, but, hey, just chill out and enjoy the ride told in crisp, descriptive prose. The front cover blurb compares Matt Hilton's Joe Hunter to Lee Child's mega-popular Jack Reacher protagonist. I'd say the parallel seems apt enough.
January 24, 2019
This book is action-packed. There is plenty of violence and there is little to no main character development. This is all about the action and bringing down an assassin.
November 28, 2014
He seems unlucky, that Joe Hilton. Two books in and two psychopathic serial murderers on his ass. Funny how the super-mad killers seem to be making a bee-line for Joe Hunter. How unlucky is that?! Ah, yes, but this one is actually a contract killer, or Contract Killer, I never know if these things should have caps or not. I suppose you ain’t gonna set it on your CV, or look it up as a job description in the newspaper, so maybe not, but anyway…
Joe Hunter is now seemingly established in the good ol’ US of A, down Florida way and seems to have joined his ex-Special Forces friend ‘Rink’ in running a Detective agency. Which, as the author himself hoped I would find by reading on (I don’t mess about, me!) kind of explains where he’s getting his money from these days. Though handing your fee back to the person buying your services ain’t gonna be good for business in the long run. We’ll see.
Cut the crap: I thoroughly enjoyed this one once I left my ego at the door and got on with enjoying it. There are surprises and there is invention and it goes, mostly, where you want it to and there’s enough here to have me on the old interwebings ordering the next one in the series before I’ve finished. Always a good sign. For the author. Maybe not for my bank balance or my long-term health if the wife finds out…Oh well, you only live once.
What I thought sometimes underway, was maybe Matt writes seeing the film of the story in his head while writing? The two books so far have all the elements that would make good films. Lose Joe’s northern accent maybe. But then, there’s a thing. I’m hoping that further stories might play up his English-ness a little more. It is mentioned once (I think it was just the once) and that was by Hunter himself. I’d have thought it was a reasonably exploit-worth angle, his British sound and attitude, northern attitude at that.
This time, Hunter takes on a job to find and rescue a young girl from a bully. Not at school or anything, but in one of Miami’s richest quarters and from one of Miami’s richest/most powerful families. Only, things aren’t all what they seem of course and Hunter isn’t the only one wanting to have words with the afore-mentioned family. There’s also someone called ‘Dantalion’, who was bullied at school and has been taking revenge - and lots of money - for it ever since. Now, ‘Dantalion’ wasn’t the name on his birth certificate, but is a persona he’s given himself - based on (apparently) a fallen Angel of the same name. The modern Dantalion wants to emulate the biblical one and that necessitates the killing of many people. Many, many people.
Of course, Joe Hunter isn’t a revenge killer. Oh no. Or an assassin of those who need assassinating. "I never saw myself as an assassin; still don't. I saw the death we doled out as a necessary evil.” But, the thorny question of who decides if someone has reached the necessary level of evil, Joe or The Law, HAS got to rear its ugly head. Many times (too many times, if you ask me - I’m sure it can be done in more subtle ways) in the book, Hunter reminds us that he is only doing good, only dealing out hurt to those who really deserve having it dealt to. We are asked by him to join him, we are shown by the actions of the others, that he must be right, that we must agree with him. But…and there has to be a but, who IS he to decide? Of course, the books wouldn’t be near so exciting if he just Batman-style left the bad guys handcuffed to a lamp-post, but sometimes…It is an interesting dilemma this - the outside the law vigilante vs the ‘problem solver.’ And so far, while walking a very careful (sometimes feeling a little too overtly careful) Matt Hilton has dealt with the dilemma very well. He realises it might be seen as a problem for his readers, often having Hunter express aims or desires in such a way that you both aren’t confused by where he sees himself and you are more than likely to go along with him/the character. There’s no doubting, you do sometimes wish Hilton would unleash Hunter from his self imposed restraints, but he has to keep the character on the right side of this being ‘revenge porn’ and making sure we are crystal clear over who is the real bad guy here. However… there are, uncomfortable, similarities between Hunter and his nemesis Dantalion. I’m not sure if they’re intentional, but I noticed a couple anyway. For instance, Dantalion doesn’t shoot Jorgenson while he’s running away, because Dantalion wants to look him in the eyes when he kills him. Clearly the mark of a mad, psychotic killer who must be stopped at all costs, inside or outside the law. Then, Hunter says, a couple of pages later; “…things had got very personal between us and I’d only be happy if I was looking into the bastard’s face when I killed him. Using my SIG meant I’d be able to see the whites of his eyes.” Clearly the mark of a totally alright, stand-up kind of, doing the right thing, a hero…
The early style of switching back and forth one chapter on Hunter, one on the villain, can be a little tiresome, unneccesary even. There are only two strands to the story at that point, maybe there needs to be more, a third location. It is more mechanical than intuitive. Needs some work, that area. When the two meet and the action becomes ‘one’, then the flow is much better and the book zings along.
What I really liked was, whilst reading, I’d get to a point where the non-reading part of my brain (it is a thing, that) would be shouting “well, why didn’t he do THAT?! Why doesn’t he (for example) just stamp on the brakes and come up behind him?! Why do they always try to out run a more powerful car IN A STRAIGHT LINE?!” Then, a paragraph or so later, he DOES all I’ve been thinking. I’m then nodding (still mentally, you understand) and thinking “He’ll do, this Joe Hunter. Good lad.” So, not predictable, but going where you’d want it, where he should and making me out to be the fool. I like that. Though I still think answering and having a reasonably sensible conversation on your mobile phone while your tear-arsing after the deadliest killer ever, stretches it a little.
I like that Hunter is beginning to be more aware of what he is in danger of being seen as, and therefore Hilton of what he has created. To be honest, it would still work and the stories still be very popular if he just went after and killed the bad guys straight off. But for us bleeding-heart liberals, we need some kind of sign of awareness of the moral dimension and dilemma involved. Perhaps fortuitously for those untroubled by such fumblings, Hunter still gets the job done with great style and gusto. And that can also be said of the book(s) so far (I’m a bit behind I’ve only read the first two as yet). They are thrillers, they thrill. They are action books, there's plenty of action. But there's also something else. I can't quite put my finger on it yet, but I'm going to enjoy reading more to find out. Maybe that's it - they're enjoyable. Maybe I should stop trying to over analyse, relax and enjoy the ride. Yes, I'll do that.
Joe Hunter is now seemingly established in the good ol’ US of A, down Florida way and seems to have joined his ex-Special Forces friend ‘Rink’ in running a Detective agency. Which, as the author himself hoped I would find by reading on (I don’t mess about, me!) kind of explains where he’s getting his money from these days. Though handing your fee back to the person buying your services ain’t gonna be good for business in the long run. We’ll see.
Cut the crap: I thoroughly enjoyed this one once I left my ego at the door and got on with enjoying it. There are surprises and there is invention and it goes, mostly, where you want it to and there’s enough here to have me on the old interwebings ordering the next one in the series before I’ve finished. Always a good sign. For the author. Maybe not for my bank balance or my long-term health if the wife finds out…Oh well, you only live once.
What I thought sometimes underway, was maybe Matt writes seeing the film of the story in his head while writing? The two books so far have all the elements that would make good films. Lose Joe’s northern accent maybe. But then, there’s a thing. I’m hoping that further stories might play up his English-ness a little more. It is mentioned once (I think it was just the once) and that was by Hunter himself. I’d have thought it was a reasonably exploit-worth angle, his British sound and attitude, northern attitude at that.
This time, Hunter takes on a job to find and rescue a young girl from a bully. Not at school or anything, but in one of Miami’s richest quarters and from one of Miami’s richest/most powerful families. Only, things aren’t all what they seem of course and Hunter isn’t the only one wanting to have words with the afore-mentioned family. There’s also someone called ‘Dantalion’, who was bullied at school and has been taking revenge - and lots of money - for it ever since. Now, ‘Dantalion’ wasn’t the name on his birth certificate, but is a persona he’s given himself - based on (apparently) a fallen Angel of the same name. The modern Dantalion wants to emulate the biblical one and that necessitates the killing of many people. Many, many people.
Of course, Joe Hunter isn’t a revenge killer. Oh no. Or an assassin of those who need assassinating. "I never saw myself as an assassin; still don't. I saw the death we doled out as a necessary evil.” But, the thorny question of who decides if someone has reached the necessary level of evil, Joe or The Law, HAS got to rear its ugly head. Many times (too many times, if you ask me - I’m sure it can be done in more subtle ways) in the book, Hunter reminds us that he is only doing good, only dealing out hurt to those who really deserve having it dealt to. We are asked by him to join him, we are shown by the actions of the others, that he must be right, that we must agree with him. But…and there has to be a but, who IS he to decide? Of course, the books wouldn’t be near so exciting if he just Batman-style left the bad guys handcuffed to a lamp-post, but sometimes…It is an interesting dilemma this - the outside the law vigilante vs the ‘problem solver.’ And so far, while walking a very careful (sometimes feeling a little too overtly careful) Matt Hilton has dealt with the dilemma very well. He realises it might be seen as a problem for his readers, often having Hunter express aims or desires in such a way that you both aren’t confused by where he sees himself and you are more than likely to go along with him/the character. There’s no doubting, you do sometimes wish Hilton would unleash Hunter from his self imposed restraints, but he has to keep the character on the right side of this being ‘revenge porn’ and making sure we are crystal clear over who is the real bad guy here. However… there are, uncomfortable, similarities between Hunter and his nemesis Dantalion. I’m not sure if they’re intentional, but I noticed a couple anyway. For instance, Dantalion doesn’t shoot Jorgenson while he’s running away, because Dantalion wants to look him in the eyes when he kills him. Clearly the mark of a mad, psychotic killer who must be stopped at all costs, inside or outside the law. Then, Hunter says, a couple of pages later; “…things had got very personal between us and I’d only be happy if I was looking into the bastard’s face when I killed him. Using my SIG meant I’d be able to see the whites of his eyes.” Clearly the mark of a totally alright, stand-up kind of, doing the right thing, a hero…
The early style of switching back and forth one chapter on Hunter, one on the villain, can be a little tiresome, unneccesary even. There are only two strands to the story at that point, maybe there needs to be more, a third location. It is more mechanical than intuitive. Needs some work, that area. When the two meet and the action becomes ‘one’, then the flow is much better and the book zings along.
What I really liked was, whilst reading, I’d get to a point where the non-reading part of my brain (it is a thing, that) would be shouting “well, why didn’t he do THAT?! Why doesn’t he (for example) just stamp on the brakes and come up behind him?! Why do they always try to out run a more powerful car IN A STRAIGHT LINE?!” Then, a paragraph or so later, he DOES all I’ve been thinking. I’m then nodding (still mentally, you understand) and thinking “He’ll do, this Joe Hunter. Good lad.” So, not predictable, but going where you’d want it, where he should and making me out to be the fool. I like that. Though I still think answering and having a reasonably sensible conversation on your mobile phone while your tear-arsing after the deadliest killer ever, stretches it a little.
I like that Hunter is beginning to be more aware of what he is in danger of being seen as, and therefore Hilton of what he has created. To be honest, it would still work and the stories still be very popular if he just went after and killed the bad guys straight off. But for us bleeding-heart liberals, we need some kind of sign of awareness of the moral dimension and dilemma involved. Perhaps fortuitously for those untroubled by such fumblings, Hunter still gets the job done with great style and gusto. And that can also be said of the book(s) so far (I’m a bit behind I’ve only read the first two as yet). They are thrillers, they thrill. They are action books, there's plenty of action. But there's also something else. I can't quite put my finger on it yet, but I'm going to enjoy reading more to find out. Maybe that's it - they're enjoyable. Maybe I should stop trying to over analyse, relax and enjoy the ride. Yes, I'll do that.
January 28, 2011
Book 2 in the Joe Hunter Thriller Series
If you are a thriller seeker and love high octane stories there is nothing like a romp through the pages with protagonist Joe Hunter. The style follows pretty much the same format as its prequel "Dead Men's Dust" providing the reader with plenty of action, lots of shooting, endless chases and testosterone at its best. The main characters are Joe Hunter and his sidekick Jared Rington (Rink), two professional investigators with an army background and one very sick and macabre master assassin named "Dantalion".
In this highly captivating adventure, Joe is hired by Richard Dean to save his daughter Marianne from the hands of Bradley Jorgenson, who happens to be rich, a bully and Marianne's boyfriend. Richard believes she is being abused and sucked into a world of power and fast living. He wants his daughter safe at home and out of a toxic environment at any cost.
Bradley's company is a major player in military contracts and the money involved and his connections have attracted many envious people inside his company as well as outside. Joe finds himself in the middle of a hornets nest, he is not the only one targeting Bradley and Marianne, others have a different agenda, and amongst them is a hired assassin.....
This is a fast pace thriller, be prepared for never ending action. From the time Hunter sets up shop next to the Jorgenson estate to plot Marianne's extraction to the end you are plunged into an intense, violent and head spinning suspense that is filled with plenty of twists and unexpected turns. You are immersed in a narrative that is without any doubt one of this series' trademarks, it alternates between the first person point of view of Joe hunter and the third person narrative of the bad guy (Dantalion). Mr. Hilton's ability to set a scene and make his characters shine are what makes Joe Hunter's exploits an adrenaline packed experience, edge of the chair gripping from start to finish.
I am hooked; I am now a Matt Hilton junky...
If you are a thriller seeker and love high octane stories there is nothing like a romp through the pages with protagonist Joe Hunter. The style follows pretty much the same format as its prequel "Dead Men's Dust" providing the reader with plenty of action, lots of shooting, endless chases and testosterone at its best. The main characters are Joe Hunter and his sidekick Jared Rington (Rink), two professional investigators with an army background and one very sick and macabre master assassin named "Dantalion".
In this highly captivating adventure, Joe is hired by Richard Dean to save his daughter Marianne from the hands of Bradley Jorgenson, who happens to be rich, a bully and Marianne's boyfriend. Richard believes she is being abused and sucked into a world of power and fast living. He wants his daughter safe at home and out of a toxic environment at any cost.
Bradley's company is a major player in military contracts and the money involved and his connections have attracted many envious people inside his company as well as outside. Joe finds himself in the middle of a hornets nest, he is not the only one targeting Bradley and Marianne, others have a different agenda, and amongst them is a hired assassin.....
This is a fast pace thriller, be prepared for never ending action. From the time Hunter sets up shop next to the Jorgenson estate to plot Marianne's extraction to the end you are plunged into an intense, violent and head spinning suspense that is filled with plenty of twists and unexpected turns. You are immersed in a narrative that is without any doubt one of this series' trademarks, it alternates between the first person point of view of Joe hunter and the third person narrative of the bad guy (Dantalion). Mr. Hilton's ability to set a scene and make his characters shine are what makes Joe Hunter's exploits an adrenaline packed experience, edge of the chair gripping from start to finish.
I am hooked; I am now a Matt Hilton junky...
October 23, 2012
Joe Hunter is both an interesting and very dangerous character; we are talking about a real tough guy with a serious heart of gold. In this tale, Joe and his business partner/friend, Jared Rington—who operate a private investigation business in Tampa, Florida—have been asked by a client to bring his daughter home.
The father, Richard Dean, says that Marianne is being held captive by millionaire Bradley Jorgenson. He also maintains that his daughter is being abused by said millionaire and backs his claim up by giving Hunter photographs of Marianne that show her beaten and bloodied. Joe Hunter is no killer, but let’s just say that when he sees the pictures of the poor girl he seriously thinks about doing the millionaire in. Of course, Hunter may have to stand in line, as it seems there is yet another person gunning for Jorgenson.
This other individual calls himself, “Dantalion” (one of the fallen angels). He is a paid assassin and is extremely capable at his job. When Hunter and Dantalion arrive at the very swank place where Jorgenson is supposedly ‘holding’ Marianne, both try to do their jobs at once. But when the two of them cross paths and Dantalion gets away, a pursuit begins through south Florida: Dantalion thirsting for Jorgenson’s blood, while Hunter tries to reach and save the ‘poor’ Marianne.
This is one of those ‘fun’ suspense novels that is filled with car chases, gunfights, ordinary fights, murder, and mayhem—with extremely humorous scenes scattered throughout. Hunter is a great hero, Dantalion is a real nut bag, and their collaboration offers an absolute thrill ride for readers who love suspense and adventure. This is one title that you will want Hollywood to purchase right away. Real people and not one vampire in sight! Now, that’s good reading!
Until Next Time, Everybody,
Amy
The father, Richard Dean, says that Marianne is being held captive by millionaire Bradley Jorgenson. He also maintains that his daughter is being abused by said millionaire and backs his claim up by giving Hunter photographs of Marianne that show her beaten and bloodied. Joe Hunter is no killer, but let’s just say that when he sees the pictures of the poor girl he seriously thinks about doing the millionaire in. Of course, Hunter may have to stand in line, as it seems there is yet another person gunning for Jorgenson.
This other individual calls himself, “Dantalion” (one of the fallen angels). He is a paid assassin and is extremely capable at his job. When Hunter and Dantalion arrive at the very swank place where Jorgenson is supposedly ‘holding’ Marianne, both try to do their jobs at once. But when the two of them cross paths and Dantalion gets away, a pursuit begins through south Florida: Dantalion thirsting for Jorgenson’s blood, while Hunter tries to reach and save the ‘poor’ Marianne.
This is one of those ‘fun’ suspense novels that is filled with car chases, gunfights, ordinary fights, murder, and mayhem—with extremely humorous scenes scattered throughout. Hunter is a great hero, Dantalion is a real nut bag, and their collaboration offers an absolute thrill ride for readers who love suspense and adventure. This is one title that you will want Hollywood to purchase right away. Real people and not one vampire in sight! Now, that’s good reading!
Until Next Time, Everybody,
Amy
October 11, 2009
Judgement & Wrath is the second book in Matt Hilton’s series featuring Joe Hunter and his friend Jason Rington. Rington a/k/a Rink has his headquarters in Florida. Rink has a private investigation service and Joe is currently his partner in that business.
Joe meets with Richard Dean and accepts a retainer for what Joe and Rink figure will be an easy job. Richard wants his daughter Marianne brought home. Marianne is living with Bradley Jorgensen, a Miami playboy. Joe is shown a picture of Marianne taken by the Miami P.D. showing a bruised young girl. This picture makes Joe even more determined to rescue Marianne.
Joe soon discovers that the danger Marianne is facing is not from Jorgensen but from a vicious contract killer that intends to kill Jorgensen and everyone connected to him. The killer has never reckoned with a force like Joe before and once the chase begins, the excitement doesn’t let up.
“The thunders of judgement and wrath are numbered” are words that Jean-Paul St. Pierre a/k/a Dantalion quotes as he prepares to send another person to their death and add another number to his book. Dantalion includes Joe Hunter in his threat but Joe is determined to stop the killer.
Dantalion finds that he has met his match with Joe Hunter. Dantalion is a twisted individual who carries a book to track the number of people he has killed. He is adept at changing his appearance but it takes more than a change in appearance to defeat Joe Hunter.
Judgement & Wrath was just published in the United Kingdom and will be published in hardcover later in the United States. Hilton writes action packed thrillers that leave the reader anxiously waiting for the next book.
Joe meets with Richard Dean and accepts a retainer for what Joe and Rink figure will be an easy job. Richard wants his daughter Marianne brought home. Marianne is living with Bradley Jorgensen, a Miami playboy. Joe is shown a picture of Marianne taken by the Miami P.D. showing a bruised young girl. This picture makes Joe even more determined to rescue Marianne.
Joe soon discovers that the danger Marianne is facing is not from Jorgensen but from a vicious contract killer that intends to kill Jorgensen and everyone connected to him. The killer has never reckoned with a force like Joe before and once the chase begins, the excitement doesn’t let up.
“The thunders of judgement and wrath are numbered” are words that Jean-Paul St. Pierre a/k/a Dantalion quotes as he prepares to send another person to their death and add another number to his book. Dantalion includes Joe Hunter in his threat but Joe is determined to stop the killer.
Dantalion finds that he has met his match with Joe Hunter. Dantalion is a twisted individual who carries a book to track the number of people he has killed. He is adept at changing his appearance but it takes more than a change in appearance to defeat Joe Hunter.
Judgement & Wrath was just published in the United Kingdom and will be published in hardcover later in the United States. Hilton writes action packed thrillers that leave the reader anxiously waiting for the next book.
September 19, 2010
Joe Hunter is hired by Richard Dean who wants to keep his daughter safe from her abusive boyfriend, but the truth is different and to complicate the story a fallen angel, Dantalion, intervenes.
The narration follows an usual action plot with gun fires, car chasing, and all still alive, with a lot of scratches, until the end.
The best parts of the book are the changing of point of views between Joe Hunter and Dantalion, when the same action is viewed from different angles.
The characters are just sketched and the dialogs between actions don’t keep suspense high.
I preferred less textbook’s descriptions of guns, knifes, helicopters, or how to spy other people.
Although these lacks in the book, action sequences keep the reader clinging to the page and the book is readable.
The narration follows an usual action plot with gun fires, car chasing, and all still alive, with a lot of scratches, until the end.
The best parts of the book are the changing of point of views between Joe Hunter and Dantalion, when the same action is viewed from different angles.
The characters are just sketched and the dialogs between actions don’t keep suspense high.
I preferred less textbook’s descriptions of guns, knifes, helicopters, or how to spy other people.
Although these lacks in the book, action sequences keep the reader clinging to the page and the book is readable.
Read
February 24, 2011Judgement And Wrath
By Matt Hilton
The story takes place in Florida. The story starts when Joe Hunter ,the main character whose job is to protect people but he never kills, meets a worried Father ,Richard Dean, in a bar. Richard Dean is worried about his daughter ,Marianne, and wants her to go home. She is in an abusive relationship with Bradley Jorgenson. Bradley Jorgenson is watched by Danatalion ,a hired killer who is professional in killing and always changes his appearance when he kills someone.
Richard Dean asks Joe Hunter if he could bring his daughter home. Joe accepts the job and assures Richard Dean that he will bring her home.
Marianne is living with Bradley Jorgenson who is a playboy. Richard Dean is worried because Danatalion wants to kill Bradley, also he will kill anyone who is connected to Bradley Jorgenson. Joe Hunter understands the danger Marianne is in and wants to help her and bring her back home to her father.
Joe Hunter begins investigating to know who Bradley Jorgenson is and he finds that he is rich, bully, and Marianne's boyfriend. Bradley has a company that is a player in military contracts. His company has connections with all the world and with dangerous people. These connections weren't good because most of them wanted to kill him to take his money, and they wanted to kill anyone Bradley knows.
Joe moves in the next door to the home Marianne and Bradley are living in and introduces himself to Marianne. He tells her that he came to help her return to her father, but he didn't mention the reason because he had no time for Bradley was about to get home.
While he was there introducing himself, he finds Danatalion watching them and heading into Bradley's house. Joe waited there with Marianne to help her. All now what he wanted to do is to return with Marianne and both of them alive, but it was a hard thing to do without killing, so he got a gun.
The story then becomes a Tom and Jerry movies where Joe is Tom and Danatalion is Jerry. Joe chases Danatalion everywhere until at the end he kills him. By killing Danatlion, he saved the lives of many people, especially Marianne and Jorgenson.
Marianne returns home to her father, so the father awards Joe Hunter with a lot of money.
I liked this book very much because it is a non-stop action, suspenseful, and made me read until the end. I couldn't leave the book at any point because of the suspense of this book. I recommend this book to the people the love mystery stories and suspense. I don't relate myself to any character, but I could be like Joe Hunter in his smartness. I really wish to read the next book for Matt Hilton. He is really talented in getting peoples attention. He got mine very easily and I would love to read another book from this type.
Amr Mokhtar
By Matt Hilton
The story takes place in Florida. The story starts when Joe Hunter ,the main character whose job is to protect people but he never kills, meets a worried Father ,Richard Dean, in a bar. Richard Dean is worried about his daughter ,Marianne, and wants her to go home. She is in an abusive relationship with Bradley Jorgenson. Bradley Jorgenson is watched by Danatalion ,a hired killer who is professional in killing and always changes his appearance when he kills someone.
Richard Dean asks Joe Hunter if he could bring his daughter home. Joe accepts the job and assures Richard Dean that he will bring her home.
Marianne is living with Bradley Jorgenson who is a playboy. Richard Dean is worried because Danatalion wants to kill Bradley, also he will kill anyone who is connected to Bradley Jorgenson. Joe Hunter understands the danger Marianne is in and wants to help her and bring her back home to her father.
Joe Hunter begins investigating to know who Bradley Jorgenson is and he finds that he is rich, bully, and Marianne's boyfriend. Bradley has a company that is a player in military contracts. His company has connections with all the world and with dangerous people. These connections weren't good because most of them wanted to kill him to take his money, and they wanted to kill anyone Bradley knows.
Joe moves in the next door to the home Marianne and Bradley are living in and introduces himself to Marianne. He tells her that he came to help her return to her father, but he didn't mention the reason because he had no time for Bradley was about to get home.
While he was there introducing himself, he finds Danatalion watching them and heading into Bradley's house. Joe waited there with Marianne to help her. All now what he wanted to do is to return with Marianne and both of them alive, but it was a hard thing to do without killing, so he got a gun.
The story then becomes a Tom and Jerry movies where Joe is Tom and Danatalion is Jerry. Joe chases Danatalion everywhere until at the end he kills him. By killing Danatlion, he saved the lives of many people, especially Marianne and Jorgenson.
Marianne returns home to her father, so the father awards Joe Hunter with a lot of money.
I liked this book very much because it is a non-stop action, suspenseful, and made me read until the end. I couldn't leave the book at any point because of the suspense of this book. I recommend this book to the people the love mystery stories and suspense. I don't relate myself to any character, but I could be like Joe Hunter in his smartness. I really wish to read the next book for Matt Hilton. He is really talented in getting peoples attention. He got mine very easily and I would love to read another book from this type.
Amr Mokhtar
October 17, 2010
Judgement & Wrath is the second book in Matt Hilton’s Joe Hunter series and my third review of the action series. Having reviewed Cut and Run (Joe Hunter #4) and Dead Men’s Dust (Joe Hunter #1) I set about reading Hilton’s second captivating instalment.
Once again the narrative is written from a first person point of view (Joe Hunter) and third person narrative (Dantalion the hitman); this is without doubt Matt Hilton’s trade mark along with the non-stop action that lies within.
I didn’t find the plot as strong as Cut and Run or Dead Men’s Dust but it more than makes up for this shortfall with the high body count – I do mean high! – And a character hell bent on protecting a young girl from the evil clutches of her abusive boyfriend; whatever the cost.
The story begins when Joe Hunter meets with a worried father (Richard Dean) in a bar no self-respecting citizen would be seen dead in. His daughter is in an abusive relationship and he wants her home, far away from Bradley Jorgenson’s persuasive influence. Money is exchanged and Dean’s parting words remain clear to Hunter
“Please, Mr Hunter, I need you to get my daughter away from that monster. If it means killing him do that ….I’ll pay you any price”
Richard Dean slides over evocative images of his daughter including a mug shot taken as evidence of her battered profile. As Hunter peruses the photographs he is clear what has to be done.
Full Review on my blog :- http://www.milorambles.com/2010/10/13...
Once again the narrative is written from a first person point of view (Joe Hunter) and third person narrative (Dantalion the hitman); this is without doubt Matt Hilton’s trade mark along with the non-stop action that lies within.
I didn’t find the plot as strong as Cut and Run or Dead Men’s Dust but it more than makes up for this shortfall with the high body count – I do mean high! – And a character hell bent on protecting a young girl from the evil clutches of her abusive boyfriend; whatever the cost.
The story begins when Joe Hunter meets with a worried father (Richard Dean) in a bar no self-respecting citizen would be seen dead in. His daughter is in an abusive relationship and he wants her home, far away from Bradley Jorgenson’s persuasive influence. Money is exchanged and Dean’s parting words remain clear to Hunter
“Please, Mr Hunter, I need you to get my daughter away from that monster. If it means killing him do that ….I’ll pay you any price”
Richard Dean slides over evocative images of his daughter including a mug shot taken as evidence of her battered profile. As Hunter peruses the photographs he is clear what has to be done.
Full Review on my blog :- http://www.milorambles.com/2010/10/13...
October 24, 2021
This took me two weeks to read.
That is never a good sign.
I feel bad for the one-star rating, because this has decent action scenes. But I just had zero investment in the proceedings. I never felt compelled to return to the book when I put it down.
The book is your typical Jack Reacher knock-off. Ex-military (British Army) guy, now "security consultant" Joe Hunter is asked by Rick Dean to get his daughter Marianne away from her supposedly abusive boyfriend, Bradley Jorgensen. However, Hunter is unaware that Bradley is the target of a hitman, Dantalion, and gets caught in the hitman's crossfire, now finds himself protecting both Marianne and Bradley.
Chapters switch between Joe and Dantalion, and basically consists of us being told the same information twice. Dantalion is one of those almost superhuman psychos, and the author tries to make him interesting, but doesn't succeed. Apparently this freakish-looking person with no muscles has been murdering undetected for years, and can bring down entire groups of trained professionals with ease? It didn't ring true. I found Dantalion's chapters just brought the pacing to a halt. The story should have been from Joe's first person POV all the way through, and maybe have thrown in some extra plot complications to keep the story going, rather than telling us everything twice.
I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but this one bored me to tears.
That is never a good sign.
I feel bad for the one-star rating, because this has decent action scenes. But I just had zero investment in the proceedings. I never felt compelled to return to the book when I put it down.
The book is your typical Jack Reacher knock-off. Ex-military (British Army) guy, now "security consultant" Joe Hunter is asked by Rick Dean to get his daughter Marianne away from her supposedly abusive boyfriend, Bradley Jorgensen. However, Hunter is unaware that Bradley is the target of a hitman, Dantalion, and gets caught in the hitman's crossfire, now finds himself protecting both Marianne and Bradley.
Chapters switch between Joe and Dantalion, and basically consists of us being told the same information twice. Dantalion is one of those almost superhuman psychos, and the author tries to make him interesting, but doesn't succeed. Apparently this freakish-looking person with no muscles has been murdering undetected for years, and can bring down entire groups of trained professionals with ease? It didn't ring true. I found Dantalion's chapters just brought the pacing to a halt. The story should have been from Joe's first person POV all the way through, and maybe have thrown in some extra plot complications to keep the story going, rather than telling us everything twice.
I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but this one bored me to tears.
April 8, 2013
This book had one of the most action packed and enjoyable openings I have ever read. I read the first 70 pages, took a five minute break and then ended up reading up to page 207. The characters and stories jump off the page and you really feel as if you are part of the action and the story. I liked Joe Hunter in Dead Men's Dust, I loved him in Judgement and Wrath. I can see Hunter becoming a favourite fictional character of mine.
I enjoyed the story in this book and the action did not let up until the very last page. It really does read like a Hollywood blockbuster and it is incredibly difficult to put it down. I was trying to read this with somebody talking to me and it was really frustrating wanting to tell them to shut up and let me read! It is an excellent book and one that I thoroughly enjoyed. I love the way fiction allows authors to push the boundaries - they aren't bound by limits (e.g. money) - after all and situations can often seem unrealistic however all that serves to improve the story for me and I want books like this to be as action packed as possible, and this book is definitely that!
Overall this was a great book, a lot better than Dead Men's Dust - which in itself was a great book - however I think Matt Hilton is an author that will just get better with each book if this one is anything to go by. And I have the rest of the series ready to read ASAP.
I enjoyed the story in this book and the action did not let up until the very last page. It really does read like a Hollywood blockbuster and it is incredibly difficult to put it down. I was trying to read this with somebody talking to me and it was really frustrating wanting to tell them to shut up and let me read! It is an excellent book and one that I thoroughly enjoyed. I love the way fiction allows authors to push the boundaries - they aren't bound by limits (e.g. money) - after all and situations can often seem unrealistic however all that serves to improve the story for me and I want books like this to be as action packed as possible, and this book is definitely that!
Overall this was a great book, a lot better than Dead Men's Dust - which in itself was a great book - however I think Matt Hilton is an author that will just get better with each book if this one is anything to go by. And I have the rest of the series ready to read ASAP.
January 10, 2012
A great second novel from a a writer who deserves far more recognition than he's already got. On the basis of the two I've read I'd put him up there with Stephen Leather and Lee Child - though Child *just* nudges it as the Reacher books are insanely good.
Joe Hunter is a great lead character. The background given to him in Dead Man's Dust has been fleshed out a bit in this second novel, and the addition of a character biography at the back is a little like the aforementioned Reacher novels. Other than that, he's a different individual with different skills. Unlike Reacher and Leather's Sam Shepherd, he does work as part of a (small) team so don't go thinking this is some kind of rip-off.
It didn't get the full five stars only as I managed to guess one of the "twists" a good few chapters before it was revealed. Other than that, it's a great book which ploughs through the plot without drawing breath. Even the chapters are an ideal length with that "just one more" feel to them.
I only picked this novel up (and the previous and following novels) as Asda had them on sale for a quid some months ago. Definitely worth the money and I'm really glad to hear that Hilton is currently working on the ninth episode with the eighth due for release in February. Plenty more adventure to go!
Joe Hunter is a great lead character. The background given to him in Dead Man's Dust has been fleshed out a bit in this second novel, and the addition of a character biography at the back is a little like the aforementioned Reacher novels. Other than that, he's a different individual with different skills. Unlike Reacher and Leather's Sam Shepherd, he does work as part of a (small) team so don't go thinking this is some kind of rip-off.
It didn't get the full five stars only as I managed to guess one of the "twists" a good few chapters before it was revealed. Other than that, it's a great book which ploughs through the plot without drawing breath. Even the chapters are an ideal length with that "just one more" feel to them.
I only picked this novel up (and the previous and following novels) as Asda had them on sale for a quid some months ago. Definitely worth the money and I'm really glad to hear that Hilton is currently working on the ninth episode with the eighth due for release in February. Plenty more adventure to go!
August 8, 2011
This was my first encounter with Joe Hunter, and I know it won't be my last!
The story in "Judgement and Wrath" grabs the reader right from the start, and takes them at a breakneck pace as the "Fixer" with his modified SIG Sauer races against the clock to protect the innocent, and make sure the bad guys get their due.
I enjoyed the hard-headed ethic of Joe, sticking to his "results by any means necessary", even when that means showing a somewhat ugly side. In one way, there's a lust for violence on Hunter's part that makes him even more realistic, by making him just that little bit scary.
The villain in the book is both memorable, and as well fleshed out as any antagonist I've read in quite some time.
If you like books that keep the action coming, with little to no time for distractions from the a$$ kicking - Joe Hunter, and Judgement and Wrath are for you.
The story in "Judgement and Wrath" grabs the reader right from the start, and takes them at a breakneck pace as the "Fixer" with his modified SIG Sauer races against the clock to protect the innocent, and make sure the bad guys get their due.
I enjoyed the hard-headed ethic of Joe, sticking to his "results by any means necessary", even when that means showing a somewhat ugly side. In one way, there's a lust for violence on Hunter's part that makes him even more realistic, by making him just that little bit scary.
The villain in the book is both memorable, and as well fleshed out as any antagonist I've read in quite some time.
If you like books that keep the action coming, with little to no time for distractions from the a$$ kicking - Joe Hunter, and Judgement and Wrath are for you.
October 19, 2010
Hunter is asked to protect a young woman from a supposed abusive boyfriend and finds himself entangled in a case involving a deluded hitman who thinks he's Dantalion, a Fallen Angel. Very exciting page turner and I'm glad to see that my faith in the author from his first book has been confirmed as this is a definite improvement from Dead Men's Dust. Hilton is a writer to watch.
September 12, 2011
The second in the series of Joe Hunter novels.
A fantastic read if you like thrillers as is very hard to put down once you pick it up.
There are comparisons with Jack Reacher, but in my opinion, Joe Hunter is much better.
This book is my particular favourite of Matt`s along with Blood and Ashes.
I am looking forward to Dead Mens Harvest, the latest addition to the series.
A fantastic read if you like thrillers as is very hard to put down once you pick it up.
There are comparisons with Jack Reacher, but in my opinion, Joe Hunter is much better.
This book is my particular favourite of Matt`s along with Blood and Ashes.
I am looking forward to Dead Mens Harvest, the latest addition to the series.
October 14, 2010
This my 2nd in this series...the hero, Joe Hilton is a low-rent Jack Reacher in comparison to a series I await breathlessly...entertaining and fulfilling enough to be a stop-gap between Child's books...I will continue the series
March 13, 2011
I took a chance on this book, I knew nothing of Matt Hilton when I bought this. I have been rewarded with a really well written thriller that kept the pace up nicely. I literally plowed through the pages.
If you like your thrillers then you will love this book.
If you like your thrillers then you will love this book.
July 21, 2011
Another amazing page turner from Matt.
April 30, 2011
better than the first book by far.
August 14, 2011
Typically fast and furious from this author, very enjoyable.
August 5, 2011
If you like Lee Child and his character Jack Reacher try UK Author Matt Hilton and meet his character Joe Hunter! Great Read...
December 10, 2019
Well, at least it was a fast read.
The one thing I will say is that the author does competently string words together. The writing is fluid and, in some places, actually compelling. In fact, the first couple of chapters almost pull off being tongue-in-cheek, which likely would have made the whole thing work. Unfortunately, the cleverness is quickly depleted leaving us with a nonsensical and highly contrived plot filled with unbelievable characters, including a psychotic serial killer villain and an ex-special forces commando hero, both of whom make more mistakes than my 12-year-old daughter would, if suddenly given a Walther PPK and a license to kill.
I skip-read the last four drawn-out chapters, which I rarely let myself do.
I can only soften all of this by saying that this is purely an action story and admitting it's not the kind of thing I would typically read. I was lured in by the back cover on which the hero is quoted as saying: "Some may call me a vigilante. I think I've just got some problems to fix." which promised a character and attitude I might get a chuckle out of.
Unfortunately, I can't consider this waste of about four hours of my life a laughing matter.
The one thing I will say is that the author does competently string words together. The writing is fluid and, in some places, actually compelling. In fact, the first couple of chapters almost pull off being tongue-in-cheek, which likely would have made the whole thing work. Unfortunately, the cleverness is quickly depleted leaving us with a nonsensical and highly contrived plot filled with unbelievable characters, including a psychotic serial killer villain and an ex-special forces commando hero, both of whom make more mistakes than my 12-year-old daughter would, if suddenly given a Walther PPK and a license to kill.
I skip-read the last four drawn-out chapters, which I rarely let myself do.
I can only soften all of this by saying that this is purely an action story and admitting it's not the kind of thing I would typically read. I was lured in by the back cover on which the hero is quoted as saying: "Some may call me a vigilante. I think I've just got some problems to fix." which promised a character and attitude I might get a chuckle out of.
Unfortunately, I can't consider this waste of about four hours of my life a laughing matter.
November 1, 2022
Enjoyable read with a lot of fast-paced action! Judgement and Wrath by Matt Hilton was a good story and Joe Hunter is a great character! Along with his partner and buddy, Rink, and another friend, Harvey, Hunter is going to get the job done no matter what.
Hired by a father to bring his daughter home, and away from her new, rich boyfriend Bradley Jorgenson. His family had made millions on military contracts.
Hunter realizes over the course of time that things are not what they appear. While watching the couple, he intervenes in an attempted murder of both, saving them. The killer is relentless and over the course of a couple of days makes numerous attempts on the family. Local police and FBI are involved and all over the place, but the killer just heads back in to try, again. Hunter is there to repel him. Eventually, he pursues the killer into the swamp and knows that he must finish the job before the FBI get there and stop Hunter from finishing him off and killing him. Hunter knows that the killer must die. That is how it has to end! He is prepared to see it all the way through.
Hired by a father to bring his daughter home, and away from her new, rich boyfriend Bradley Jorgenson. His family had made millions on military contracts.
Hunter realizes over the course of time that things are not what they appear. While watching the couple, he intervenes in an attempted murder of both, saving them. The killer is relentless and over the course of a couple of days makes numerous attempts on the family. Local police and FBI are involved and all over the place, but the killer just heads back in to try, again. Hunter is there to repel him. Eventually, he pursues the killer into the swamp and knows that he must finish the job before the FBI get there and stop Hunter from finishing him off and killing him. Hunter knows that the killer must die. That is how it has to end! He is prepared to see it all the way through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2018
I had to get this book thru an inter-library. Matt Hilton is quickly becoming my favorite author and I have some catching up to do although this is my fourth book by Matt.
Needless to say, the book moved along fast and furious which seems to be a pattern with Joe Hunter and Rink. Looking forward to my next book with this author.
Needless to say, the book moved along fast and furious which seems to be a pattern with Joe Hunter and Rink. Looking forward to my next book with this author.
December 6, 2020
New series and new author for me. Hunter and Rink are hired by a father got get his daughter away from an abusive boyfriend and he has pictures to prove it. Hunter walks right into an attempt to assassinate them both. He saves their lives, but the psychopathic killer gets away. Now he has another victim to add to his list, Hunter. Plenty of death defying action!
January 2, 2018
Gone back since I needed something fairly simple to read - Been trying to get into a few other texts but nothing was grabbing my attention so I went back to an old fave. Simple, violent, tautly written and straightforward. Just what I needed.
July 30, 2017
Ok
An OK read , a bit boring at times and just cannot be compared to The Jack Reacher books .
An OK read , a bit boring at times and just cannot be compared to The Jack Reacher books .
April 26, 2018
2.5 stars / My first Matt Hilton / Joe Hunter read. Its decent, I'll try another in the series, hoping for better.
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