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Michael Sykora #2
Beyond Salvation
A teenage runaway disappears from the streets. The only people that care, or even notice, are her two best friends who are also runaways. For reasons of their own, they can't go to the police for help
They seek out Michael Sykora, a software designer by day and hit man by night. Known on the streets as The Ghost, Michael has a reputation for taking on the twisted criminals. Rapists. Child molesters. He has never been hired to find the lost. Until now.
Michael teams up with ex-prostitute Nicki and full-time hit man Sean. Together they bend the rules of the justice system in order to find a young girl few people care about. In the process, they uncover a world where salvation comes with a price tag and God's words are used to incite fear in a congregation of believers.
They seek out Michael Sykora, a software designer by day and hit man by night. Known on the streets as The Ghost, Michael has a reputation for taking on the twisted criminals. Rapists. Child molesters. He has never been hired to find the lost. Until now.
Michael teams up with ex-prostitute Nicki and full-time hit man Sean. Together they bend the rules of the justice system in order to find a young girl few people care about. In the process, they uncover a world where salvation comes with a price tag and God's words are used to incite fear in a congregation of believers.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2009
29 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Darcia Helle
30 books736 followersDusty corners of the mind intrigue me.
I'm an armchair explorer; book in one hand, mug of tea in the other.
Connect on Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/DarciaHelle
I'm an armchair explorer; book in one hand, mug of tea in the other.
Connect on Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/DarciaHelle
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 23, 2015
He Sure Does A Lot of Good Deeds for Being a Hitman!
In No Justice: A Michael Sykora Novel, Michael Sykora learns how to kill from the hit man he hired to avenge his wife's death. In Beyond Salvation, book two in the series, he puts those murderous skills to use. Only instead of killing people, Michael tries to save a teenage girl who has been kidnapped by a cult.
There are three story lines in this novel:
1) Michael and his friend Nicki trying to save the teenage girl Sara
2) Michael and Nicki's growing feelings for each other
3) Michael trying to find his mother and sister, who left when he was a child, before his father dies
Each storyline is enjoyable and suspenseful. The cult springs from a corrupt church, involving a creepy psychologist and Bible perversions aplenty. (I'm impressed the author knows so many Bible verses!) Michael and Nicki are adorable as they initially deny their fondness for each other, and their bickering is fun. I love Michael's line: "Let's just skip right to the part where I pretend I have some say in this and I agree." Smart man! And Michael's family story provides realistic depth for his character.
I love Darcia Helle's writing style. No word is wasted. She creates multi-dimensional characters, like Charlie the homeless man who witnesses Sara's abduction. Charlie tends to ramble, which tests Michael's patience:
"Lots of traffic, people with busy lives. They don't pay no one no mind that early in the morning. They stare straight ahead. Fighting sleep. Sometimes you catch a man shaving or a lady putting on her make-up and you wonder why they don't do that at home."
Busted! I apply my makeup driving to work every morning. Charlie is quite observant.
I also enjoy the wry humor. Here Michael talks to his police officer friend:
"I need a favor," Michael said.
"Didn't I do a favor for you just yesterday?" Isaac said.
"I've become needy."
"Apparently so."
I've already expressed my admiration for the irrepressible Ruby, Michael's secretary and Isaac's mother:
Ruby wore lime green linen pants and a sleeveless top with an assortment of fluorescent splotches. Her feet were stuffed into sandals with three-inch heels and her toenails were painted with silver glitter. As if that wasn't enough, her chocolate skin was also covered with silver glitter. She was actually sparkling. Nothing about Ruby was subtle.
Despite the darkness of the subject matter, Darcia Helle manages to keep a light tone, and the ending made me quite happy.
I can't wait to read book three in the series: Killing Instinct: A Michael Sykora Novel!
In No Justice: A Michael Sykora Novel, Michael Sykora learns how to kill from the hit man he hired to avenge his wife's death. In Beyond Salvation, book two in the series, he puts those murderous skills to use. Only instead of killing people, Michael tries to save a teenage girl who has been kidnapped by a cult.
There are three story lines in this novel:
1) Michael and his friend Nicki trying to save the teenage girl Sara
2) Michael and Nicki's growing feelings for each other
3) Michael trying to find his mother and sister, who left when he was a child, before his father dies
Each storyline is enjoyable and suspenseful. The cult springs from a corrupt church, involving a creepy psychologist and Bible perversions aplenty. (I'm impressed the author knows so many Bible verses!) Michael and Nicki are adorable as they initially deny their fondness for each other, and their bickering is fun. I love Michael's line: "Let's just skip right to the part where I pretend I have some say in this and I agree." Smart man! And Michael's family story provides realistic depth for his character.
I love Darcia Helle's writing style. No word is wasted. She creates multi-dimensional characters, like Charlie the homeless man who witnesses Sara's abduction. Charlie tends to ramble, which tests Michael's patience:
"Lots of traffic, people with busy lives. They don't pay no one no mind that early in the morning. They stare straight ahead. Fighting sleep. Sometimes you catch a man shaving or a lady putting on her make-up and you wonder why they don't do that at home."
Busted! I apply my makeup driving to work every morning. Charlie is quite observant.
I also enjoy the wry humor. Here Michael talks to his police officer friend:
"I need a favor," Michael said.
"Didn't I do a favor for you just yesterday?" Isaac said.
"I've become needy."
"Apparently so."
I've already expressed my admiration for the irrepressible Ruby, Michael's secretary and Isaac's mother:
Ruby wore lime green linen pants and a sleeveless top with an assortment of fluorescent splotches. Her feet were stuffed into sandals with three-inch heels and her toenails were painted with silver glitter. As if that wasn't enough, her chocolate skin was also covered with silver glitter. She was actually sparkling. Nothing about Ruby was subtle.
Despite the darkness of the subject matter, Darcia Helle manages to keep a light tone, and the ending made me quite happy.
I can't wait to read book three in the series: Killing Instinct: A Michael Sykora Novel!
March 23, 2015
He Sure Does A Lot of Good Deeds for Being a Hitman!
In No Justice: A Michael Sykora Novel, Michael Sykora learns how to kill from the hit man he hired to avenge his wife's death. In Beyond Salvation, book two in the series, he puts those murderous skills to use. Only instead of killing people, Michael tries to save a teenage girl who has been kidnapped by a cult.
There are three story lines in this novel:
1) Michael and his friend Nicki trying to save the teenage girl Sara
2) Michael and Nicki's growing feelings for each other
3) Michael trying to find his mother and sister, who left when he was a child, before his father dies
Each storyline is enjoyable and suspenseful. The cult springs from a corrupt church, involving a creepy psychologist and Bible perversions aplenty. (I'm impressed the author knows so many Bible verses!) Michael and Nicki are adorable as they initially deny their fondness for each other, and their bickering is fun. I love Michael's line: "Let's just skip right to the part where I pretend I have some say in this and I agree." Smart man! And Michael's family story provides realistic depth for his character.
I love Darcia Helle's writing style. No word is wasted. She creates multi-dimensional characters, like Charlie the homeless man who witnesses Sara's abduction. Charlie tends to ramble, which tests Michael's patience:
"Lots of traffic, people with busy lives. They don't pay no one no mind that early in the morning. They stare straight ahead. Fighting sleep. Sometimes you catch a man shaving or a lady putting on her make-up and you wonder why they don't do that at home."
Busted! I apply my makeup driving to work every morning. Charlie is quite observant.
I also enjoy the wry humor. Here Michael talks to his police officer friend:
"I need a favor," Michael said.
"Didn't I do a favor for you just yesterday?" Isaac said.
"I've become needy."
"Apparently so."
I've already expressed my admiration for the irrepressible Ruby, Michael's secretary and Isaac's mother:
Ruby wore lime green linen pants and a sleeveless top with an assortment of fluorescent splotches. Her feet were stuffed into sandals with three-inch heels and her toenails were painted with silver glitter. As if that wasn't enough, her chocolate skin was also covered with silver glitter. She was actually sparkling. Nothing about Ruby was subtle.
Despite the darkness of the subject matter, Darcia Helle manages to keep a light tone, and the ending made me quite happy.
I can't wait to read book three in the series: Killing Instinct: A Michael Sykora Novel!
In No Justice: A Michael Sykora Novel, Michael Sykora learns how to kill from the hit man he hired to avenge his wife's death. In Beyond Salvation, book two in the series, he puts those murderous skills to use. Only instead of killing people, Michael tries to save a teenage girl who has been kidnapped by a cult.
There are three story lines in this novel:
1) Michael and his friend Nicki trying to save the teenage girl Sara
2) Michael and Nicki's growing feelings for each other
3) Michael trying to find his mother and sister, who left when he was a child, before his father dies
Each storyline is enjoyable and suspenseful. The cult springs from a corrupt church, involving a creepy psychologist and Bible perversions aplenty. (I'm impressed the author knows so many Bible verses!) Michael and Nicki are adorable as they initially deny their fondness for each other, and their bickering is fun. I love Michael's line: "Let's just skip right to the part where I pretend I have some say in this and I agree." Smart man! And Michael's family story provides realistic depth for his character.
I love Darcia Helle's writing style. No word is wasted. She creates multi-dimensional characters, like Charlie the homeless man who witnesses Sara's abduction. Charlie tends to ramble, which tests Michael's patience:
"Lots of traffic, people with busy lives. They don't pay no one no mind that early in the morning. They stare straight ahead. Fighting sleep. Sometimes you catch a man shaving or a lady putting on her make-up and you wonder why they don't do that at home."
Busted! I apply my makeup driving to work every morning. Charlie is quite observant.
I also enjoy the wry humor. Here Michael talks to his police officer friend:
"I need a favor," Michael said.
"Didn't I do a favor for you just yesterday?" Isaac said.
"I've become needy."
"Apparently so."
I've already expressed my admiration for the irrepressible Ruby, Michael's secretary and Isaac's mother:
Ruby wore lime green linen pants and a sleeveless top with an assortment of fluorescent splotches. Her feet were stuffed into sandals with three-inch heels and her toenails were painted with silver glitter. As if that wasn't enough, her chocolate skin was also covered with silver glitter. She was actually sparkling. Nothing about Ruby was subtle.
Despite the darkness of the subject matter, Darcia Helle manages to keep a light tone, and the ending made me quite happy.
I can't wait to read book three in the series: Killing Instinct: A Michael Sykora Novel!
October 6, 2020
Even better than the first story!
Michael, Sean and Nicki get involved with some street kids who are searching for their missing friend. She was taken into a car by two unknown men. Witnesses suspected prostitution, but those who knew her said she would never prostitute herself because she grew up (until she ran away) watching her mother turn tricks for drug money. The investigation Michael undertakes is complex and takes him in many different directions, most of which would lead to spoilers. He is also attempting to locate his mother and younger sister at the same time because his father’s illness is gradually taking his life. There is less violence in this novel than the previous one, but not less interest and complexity. I’m already planning to read the third one. Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-galley for an honest review.
Michael, Sean and Nicki get involved with some street kids who are searching for their missing friend. She was taken into a car by two unknown men. Witnesses suspected prostitution, but those who knew her said she would never prostitute herself because she grew up (until she ran away) watching her mother turn tricks for drug money. The investigation Michael undertakes is complex and takes him in many different directions, most of which would lead to spoilers. He is also attempting to locate his mother and younger sister at the same time because his father’s illness is gradually taking his life. There is less violence in this novel than the previous one, but not less interest and complexity. I’m already planning to read the third one. Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-galley for an honest review.
June 10, 2011
"Beyond Salvation" is the second novel in Darcia Helle, Michael Sykora series.The first novel, "No Justice", did a terrific job of establishing the characters through fast-paced action and increased tension.This novel focuses on the case of a teen, Sara Rivers, who was abducted by a fanatical religious group.In this novel Michael utilizes the help of his partner-in-crime, Sean,and Nicki his "good friend/girlfriend", to solve the case. The book is well done and the characters refreshing. The plot was both interesting and informative. Overall, I recommend this book for those who not only want a good read but also to have something to think about.Another great novel by Darcia Helle.
January 25, 2024
I finished the first Michael Sykora novel, No Justice, and was feeling kind of sad that it ended so I decided to just jump immediately into the next book. I started Beyond Salvation after dinner, and stayed up way past my bedtime to finish. It's been a long time since I read a book in one sitting but if a book ever deserved a one sitting read it's this one.
All our favorite players are back and Michael and Nicki are still trying to navigate their friendship. When Nicki is approached about a missing teen girl, she turns to Michael for help. Michael starts poking around and it's turns out there is much more than meets the eye to this disappearance, including religious zealots with weird culty vibes.
I think one of the things I really loved about this book is that Helle gives voice to characters who are usually marginalized. Prostitutes, homeless people, street kids all become players in this book and they are given humanity and backstories. I also really loved how many ordinary people are trying to do the right thing and make the world better and that is a world I want to live in. I had to pause my reading of the Sykora series for a buddy read but I can't wait to jump back into the next two books. And maybe I can talk Helle into writing more? I already have a feeling that I'm going to need them....
All our favorite players are back and Michael and Nicki are still trying to navigate their friendship. When Nicki is approached about a missing teen girl, she turns to Michael for help. Michael starts poking around and it's turns out there is much more than meets the eye to this disappearance, including religious zealots with weird culty vibes.
I think one of the things I really loved about this book is that Helle gives voice to characters who are usually marginalized. Prostitutes, homeless people, street kids all become players in this book and they are given humanity and backstories. I also really loved how many ordinary people are trying to do the right thing and make the world better and that is a world I want to live in. I had to pause my reading of the Sykora series for a buddy read but I can't wait to jump back into the next two books. And maybe I can talk Helle into writing more? I already have a feeling that I'm going to need them....
December 24, 2009
In "Beyond Salvation," author Darcia Helle has provided another enjoyable read.
This is the second book with Michael Skorka as the central character. The first Michael Sykora book is the equally enjoyable "No Justice."
An interesting trait of the author is that she likes to teach the reader something besides providing a story. She has written about children caring for elderly parents instead of placing them in elderly living homes and now she tells a story about teenagers and the perils of life on the streets.
This story centers on sixteen year old Sara Rivers being taken from the street by two men in a SUV. Sara's friends had done a favor for a reformed prostitute named Nicki. She told them that if they ever needed anything, to come to her. Now they are asking for her help in finding Sara.
Where Nicki isn't capable of finding a lost child, her friend Michael Sykora has that talent. Michael has a day job for cover but he also happens to be a hit man specializing in those preditors who prey on the innocent, in particular, child preditors.
Mike and his friend Sean find that there is a religious group who take young people from the street or shelters and attempt to persuade them to follow the way of God. The problem is that they use intimidation and two of the men like to use their persuasive techniques on young women.
The book is well done and the characters refreshing. The plot was both interesting and informative. Overall, I recommend this book for those who not only want a good read but also to have something to think about.
This is the second book with Michael Skorka as the central character. The first Michael Sykora book is the equally enjoyable "No Justice."
An interesting trait of the author is that she likes to teach the reader something besides providing a story. She has written about children caring for elderly parents instead of placing them in elderly living homes and now she tells a story about teenagers and the perils of life on the streets.
This story centers on sixteen year old Sara Rivers being taken from the street by two men in a SUV. Sara's friends had done a favor for a reformed prostitute named Nicki. She told them that if they ever needed anything, to come to her. Now they are asking for her help in finding Sara.
Where Nicki isn't capable of finding a lost child, her friend Michael Sykora has that talent. Michael has a day job for cover but he also happens to be a hit man specializing in those preditors who prey on the innocent, in particular, child preditors.
Mike and his friend Sean find that there is a religious group who take young people from the street or shelters and attempt to persuade them to follow the way of God. The problem is that they use intimidation and two of the men like to use their persuasive techniques on young women.
The book is well done and the characters refreshing. The plot was both interesting and informative. Overall, I recommend this book for those who not only want a good read but also to have something to think about.
December 19, 2018
Another Great Novel
Here I lay at 4:30AM writing a book review because I couldn't put it down! ,Again!
Darcie Hellen has hit another home run . I hope this Michael Sykora series never ends.
I can't explain how a suspense novel can also be a tear jerker... But it is.
Enjoy the novel and be prepared for the insomnia.
Here I lay at 4:30AM writing a book review because I couldn't put it down! ,Again!
Darcie Hellen has hit another home run . I hope this Michael Sykora series never ends.
I can't explain how a suspense novel can also be a tear jerker... But it is.
Enjoy the novel and be prepared for the insomnia.
November 6, 2018
nother great hit for Michael, the hit man, and his girl Niki. Michael was happy with his side job of taking out the bad guys, but he really enjoyed helping random people in trouble, even if he wouldn't admit it to himself. When his 'friend' Niki announced she wanted to partner with him in a business called Lost and Found Michael was immediately opposed, but when a new case was offered him about a missing teenager, his life was suddenly on the path of finding the lost and doing good. As always there are lots of twists and turns, bad guys posing as good guys, and lots of innocents in the mix. Maybe even Sean will join them.
February 19, 2018
I love this author's work, so was delighted to win a copy of this book.
The character, Michael Sykora, is fascinating - a good man with a surprising job; but one we accept because he is a good man.
Other characters in the story are well-developed and interesting, and together they form a fabulous cast.
This story tackles homelessness and religion and corruption, is filled with action, emotion and suspense - great plot - and kept me glued to the pages until the end.
An excellent read.
Highly recommended.
The character, Michael Sykora, is fascinating - a good man with a surprising job; but one we accept because he is a good man.
Other characters in the story are well-developed and interesting, and together they form a fabulous cast.
This story tackles homelessness and religion and corruption, is filled with action, emotion and suspense - great plot - and kept me glued to the pages until the end.
An excellent read.
Highly recommended.
September 24, 2018
Fascia Helps strikes again!
Another great book by Darcia Helle, who sounds a lot like her character Nikki. This is a fast paced read, that sometimes doesn't give you a rest period. The third book of hers that I have read, these read well as a stand alone novel. I am reading them in sequence though, because the flow is seamless as a series. If you like good guys doing the dirty work, this book is for you!
Another great book by Darcia Helle, who sounds a lot like her character Nikki. This is a fast paced read, that sometimes doesn't give you a rest period. The third book of hers that I have read, these read well as a stand alone novel. I am reading them in sequence though, because the flow is seamless as a series. If you like good guys doing the dirty work, this book is for you!
September 30, 2017
What can I say? Another compelling four-and-a-half hour read with developing characters. One COULD read this on its own, but one will get a fuller sense of character development by reading it after the first book (No Justice). To say any more would risk spoiling.
This was a gift book and this voluntary review is entirely my own opinion.
This was a gift book and this voluntary review is entirely my own opinion.
February 23, 2020
This begins with Niki trying to become a partner with Michael, she could help him, with the people she knew. He keeps saying no. A case comes of a missing teenager. He finds the homeless children and teens being manipulated by two professional people. Michael is set on taking them down in another good plot, that flows to the end.
March 23, 2019
Intense
Great characters & great character interactions.. the story line is edge of the seat wondering how the plot will play out. A good detective / pi story with a little love story running in the background. Emotional ending
Great characters & great character interactions.. the story line is edge of the seat wondering how the plot will play out. A good detective / pi story with a little love story running in the background. Emotional ending
November 25, 2017
very good
August 26, 2019
Michael
June 18, 2013
First off, I advise anyone who likes the HBO show (or books), Dexter, should really check these books out! While Michael Sykora is not a serial killer / blood analyst, he IS a man who rids this world of scum in an effort to maintain the balance.
Synopsis:
Three weeks ago, Michael Sykora completed one of the most important hits of his life – and in doing so, he saved Nicki’s life. Knowing what he did to save her, Nicki tells Michael that they should become partners and start a new business, Lost and Found. The legitimate aspect will involve finding anyone who is lost, and the shady side will operate to “find the bad guys and make them disappear.” Michael is hesitant about the idea, but when the teenagers who helped Nicki before lose their friend, Sara, Michael finds himself spearheading the search for the missing girl. But this time, Michael doesn’t have to do everything all on his own. Michael, Nicki, and Sean make an unlikely, but effective, trio as they pool their resources to track down Sara. When they discover who took Sara, they realize the need to act quickly. Sara might not have a lot of time. Michael is going to go up against a force unlike one he’s faced before – a religious congregation and a zealot who preaches his twisted version of the Bible to a congregation. Will Michael be able to rescue Sara before she becomes Beyond Salvation?
——
Review:
Beyond Salvation was even better than No Justice! Helle really has a talent for writing creative, action-packed scenes. The story moves quickly, but the quality of the tale does not suffer. I am still amazed at the easy, realistic dialogue. I truly enjoyed this read – seriously, I laughed out loud many, many times.
One of my favorite quotes is when Michael compares the difference between talking to Charlie (a homeless drunk whose past is haunted with pain, loss and suffering) and listening to Nicki when she gets on a roll:
"Talking to Charlie is like taking the scenic route on a trip. You see a lot of things that aren’t necessarily important. It takes longer but eventually you get to where you were going and you’re done. Talking to you (Nicki) is a different trip entirely. You jump on a plane and right away get to where you thought you needed to be. But then you find out there’s a bus waiting to take you to a taxi that drops you off at a canoe. Next thing you know, you’re in the middle of the ocean with no paddles and you have no idea how you wound up there or what you’re supposed to do now that you’ve arrived.”
If that isn’t the PERFECT definition of following a woman’s ramblings (myself included), then I don’t know what is!
While it usually annoys me when an author spends quite a few chapters wrapping things up, I have to admit that I enjoyed the last chapters just as much as the rest of the book because they added QUALITY scenes to an already terrific story. I will warn you that I teared up at some parts, laughed at others, and ***mini spoiler alert*** Nicki and Michael FINALLY get past that “just friends” stage! I can’t wait to read and review Killing Instinct!
Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Appropriate for ages 16 & up.
(Please note that there are some parts in this book that may not be suitable for young, impressionable minds to read. At the risk of a spoiler – some scenes in the story allude to cruel actions taken against young girls. But rest assured, Sykora makes all of the wrongdoers pay!)
Synopsis:
Three weeks ago, Michael Sykora completed one of the most important hits of his life – and in doing so, he saved Nicki’s life. Knowing what he did to save her, Nicki tells Michael that they should become partners and start a new business, Lost and Found. The legitimate aspect will involve finding anyone who is lost, and the shady side will operate to “find the bad guys and make them disappear.” Michael is hesitant about the idea, but when the teenagers who helped Nicki before lose their friend, Sara, Michael finds himself spearheading the search for the missing girl. But this time, Michael doesn’t have to do everything all on his own. Michael, Nicki, and Sean make an unlikely, but effective, trio as they pool their resources to track down Sara. When they discover who took Sara, they realize the need to act quickly. Sara might not have a lot of time. Michael is going to go up against a force unlike one he’s faced before – a religious congregation and a zealot who preaches his twisted version of the Bible to a congregation. Will Michael be able to rescue Sara before she becomes Beyond Salvation?
——
Review:
Beyond Salvation was even better than No Justice! Helle really has a talent for writing creative, action-packed scenes. The story moves quickly, but the quality of the tale does not suffer. I am still amazed at the easy, realistic dialogue. I truly enjoyed this read – seriously, I laughed out loud many, many times.
One of my favorite quotes is when Michael compares the difference between talking to Charlie (a homeless drunk whose past is haunted with pain, loss and suffering) and listening to Nicki when she gets on a roll:
"Talking to Charlie is like taking the scenic route on a trip. You see a lot of things that aren’t necessarily important. It takes longer but eventually you get to where you were going and you’re done. Talking to you (Nicki) is a different trip entirely. You jump on a plane and right away get to where you thought you needed to be. But then you find out there’s a bus waiting to take you to a taxi that drops you off at a canoe. Next thing you know, you’re in the middle of the ocean with no paddles and you have no idea how you wound up there or what you’re supposed to do now that you’ve arrived.”
If that isn’t the PERFECT definition of following a woman’s ramblings (myself included), then I don’t know what is!
While it usually annoys me when an author spends quite a few chapters wrapping things up, I have to admit that I enjoyed the last chapters just as much as the rest of the book because they added QUALITY scenes to an already terrific story. I will warn you that I teared up at some parts, laughed at others, and ***mini spoiler alert*** Nicki and Michael FINALLY get past that “just friends” stage! I can’t wait to read and review Killing Instinct!
Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Appropriate for ages 16 & up.
(Please note that there are some parts in this book that may not be suitable for young, impressionable minds to read. At the risk of a spoiler – some scenes in the story allude to cruel actions taken against young girls. But rest assured, Sykora makes all of the wrongdoers pay!)
October 1, 2009
Beyond Salvation
by Darcia Helle
Beyond Salvation is the sequel to Darcia Helle’s novel, No Justice. From the first page, the reader is caught up in the interesting and complicated lives of Michael Sykora and Nicki. All of Helle’s characters, from Isaac, Sykora’s police officer friend, to an assorted group of criminals, are interesting people with realistic and intriguing interactions. Sykora’s difficult relationship with his father is familiar to anyone who has passed through their teenage years into adulthood, as well as to those of us who are parents. Sykora’s almost girlfriend is an former prostitute who is now working as a receptionist in a doctor’s office. Nicki comes across in the pages of Helle’s novel as the kind of person you would want as a friend. Her checkered past is offset by her compassion and some rather appealing faults. Sykora is a software engineer by day, and a shadowy figure by night. He haunts the dreams of the criminal underworld of the city. People call Sykora The Ghost.
When Sara Rivers, a young girl living on the streets of the city, disappears, her friends Derek and Jay go to Nicki for help. Nicki feels compelled to help them after they rescued her from Antonio Lott, a dangerous criminal in Helle’s previous novel. Their search for Sara leads them down a twisted path and into the world of religious cults, depravity, and indifference. You are going to enjoy Beyond Salvation immensely. Helle’s archetypical characters reflect the problems of society, while the vengeful Ghost cuts through the normal restraints of our culture in way that is both logical and gratifying. Five stars to author Darcia Helle for a job well done. I highly recommend this book.
Joe Prentis
by Darcia Helle
Beyond Salvation is the sequel to Darcia Helle’s novel, No Justice. From the first page, the reader is caught up in the interesting and complicated lives of Michael Sykora and Nicki. All of Helle’s characters, from Isaac, Sykora’s police officer friend, to an assorted group of criminals, are interesting people with realistic and intriguing interactions. Sykora’s difficult relationship with his father is familiar to anyone who has passed through their teenage years into adulthood, as well as to those of us who are parents. Sykora’s almost girlfriend is an former prostitute who is now working as a receptionist in a doctor’s office. Nicki comes across in the pages of Helle’s novel as the kind of person you would want as a friend. Her checkered past is offset by her compassion and some rather appealing faults. Sykora is a software engineer by day, and a shadowy figure by night. He haunts the dreams of the criminal underworld of the city. People call Sykora The Ghost.
When Sara Rivers, a young girl living on the streets of the city, disappears, her friends Derek and Jay go to Nicki for help. Nicki feels compelled to help them after they rescued her from Antonio Lott, a dangerous criminal in Helle’s previous novel. Their search for Sara leads them down a twisted path and into the world of religious cults, depravity, and indifference. You are going to enjoy Beyond Salvation immensely. Helle’s archetypical characters reflect the problems of society, while the vengeful Ghost cuts through the normal restraints of our culture in way that is both logical and gratifying. Five stars to author Darcia Helle for a job well done. I highly recommend this book.
Joe Prentis
July 26, 2015
Kids: Beyond Salvation (A Michael Sykora novel) by Darcia Helle
This is the second novel in this awesome series. Michael and Nicki ( you remember Nicki, the prostitute Micheal was with after the killing of his fiancé). Michael helped Nicki in No Justice, now she's got a job and apartment, has her head on straight. Michael and her are great friends, Nicki wants more, Michael keeps putting her off, (will Nicki win). Michael has problems with his dad, he has cancer and Michael wants to find his sister before he dies. He enlists his best friend Isaac ( police officer) to help find her. He has all that going on and his daytime job as a software designer, at night he plays justice for those who need him. He mostly goes after child molesters and rapist who think their above the law. Two boys who live on the streets that helped Nicki out when she needed it needs her help finding a girl that lived with them, they are sure she's in trouble. Michael usually doesn't do runaways but, these boys helped Nicki, so he said he'd meet them. They decided to try to help, when things get deep Michael asks his friend and hit man Sean to help. What they dig into is a world where danger lies in the hands of people who claim to be in Gods hands. You must read this series!!!
This is the second novel in this awesome series. Michael and Nicki ( you remember Nicki, the prostitute Micheal was with after the killing of his fiancé). Michael helped Nicki in No Justice, now she's got a job and apartment, has her head on straight. Michael and her are great friends, Nicki wants more, Michael keeps putting her off, (will Nicki win). Michael has problems with his dad, he has cancer and Michael wants to find his sister before he dies. He enlists his best friend Isaac ( police officer) to help find her. He has all that going on and his daytime job as a software designer, at night he plays justice for those who need him. He mostly goes after child molesters and rapist who think their above the law. Two boys who live on the streets that helped Nicki out when she needed it needs her help finding a girl that lived with them, they are sure she's in trouble. Michael usually doesn't do runaways but, these boys helped Nicki, so he said he'd meet them. They decided to try to help, when things get deep Michael asks his friend and hit man Sean to help. What they dig into is a world where danger lies in the hands of people who claim to be in Gods hands. You must read this series!!!
May 27, 2010
Beyond Salvation is the second novel in Darcia Helle's Michael Sykora series. The first novel, No Justice, did a terrific job of establishing the characters through fast-paced action and mounting tension. Beyond Salvation channels that energy in a well-defined direction, focusing on the case of a teen who was abducted by a deeply flawed religious group.
While the body count in this novel is decidedly less than its predecessor, Helle demonstrates an exceptional ability to evoke a wide range of intense emotions from her readers. The subplots that are common to both novels show a very believable progression in Sykora's relationships and professional life. I can't wait for the next installment.
While the body count in this novel is decidedly less than its predecessor, Helle demonstrates an exceptional ability to evoke a wide range of intense emotions from her readers. The subplots that are common to both novels show a very believable progression in Sykora's relationships and professional life. I can't wait for the next installment.
September 26, 2009
He is The Ghost, a killer for hire who can help you get revenge if the justice system turned away from you. He keeps odd hours and makes a fortune killing criminals of the worst kind. This is a second book by Darcia Helle about Michael Sykora, the Ghost, new Batman of the underworld where criminals are afraid of him and victims worship his name.
However, in this book, Michael has some skeletons in his closet he is forced to deal with. Page-turner and a thrill-ride from first page to last.
What I like about this author is that she never ceases to surprise me with the way her storyline develops.
This is my fourth book by this author, I can't wait for the next.
However, in this book, Michael has some skeletons in his closet he is forced to deal with. Page-turner and a thrill-ride from first page to last.
What I like about this author is that she never ceases to surprise me with the way her storyline develops.
This is my fourth book by this author, I can't wait for the next.
September 23, 2012
Won this on first-reads. I love mystery and adventure and this book has both. It follows a computer programmer/hit man as he acts as his neighborhoods vigilante hero of (in this story) the forgotten of the city. In this book he attempts to save a missing runaway from a cult-like church which has taken it upon themselves to "cleanse" and "save" the strays and runaways on the streets through actions most of us find abhorrent. While the main character Michael Sykora doesn't always use legal methods of bringing down the criminals, he is still a likeable character and gets the job done.
won as a giveaway
won as a giveaway
March 16, 2010
Beyond Salvation: A Michael Sykora Novel (Darcia Helle)
Picks up perfectly where No Justice left off. Michael teams up with Nicki (ex-prostitute) to help find a missing teen run-a-way (Sara). With the aide of Micheal's friend Sean, they set out to find her, what they uncover is unjust. Once again Michael is in a race with time to rescue the young girl.
More details on Micheal's past are brought up and the ending is perfect, leaving room for another Michael Sykora novel. Another hit for Ms. Helle, I look forward to reading her newest book, Miami Snow.
Picks up perfectly where No Justice left off. Michael teams up with Nicki (ex-prostitute) to help find a missing teen run-a-way (Sara). With the aide of Micheal's friend Sean, they set out to find her, what they uncover is unjust. Once again Michael is in a race with time to rescue the young girl.
More details on Micheal's past are brought up and the ending is perfect, leaving room for another Michael Sykora novel. Another hit for Ms. Helle, I look forward to reading her newest book, Miami Snow.
May 29, 2011
I picked up Darcia Helle's "Beyond Salvation" this morning and did not put it down until I finished this afternoon. I just love a fast paced novel that keeps the mind wondering: "what's next"?! Michael Sykora and his dear friend (albeit past lover) Nicki have to find a missing young girl 'Sara' from a religious cult that may be her demise. Between trying to find Sara and the sexual tension between Michael and Nicki, the read keeps you going from page to page. Fabulous book!
August 5, 2012
Book 2 of the series continues with Michael and Nikki in a new direction. With less killing than in the first book, this book comes across as more emotional and more personal. I wasn't too crazy about the ending, but I hear there's a 3rd book in the works and look forward to see where it goes.
Currently reading
January 30, 2010Currently reading....
August 7, 2012
very good!! kept me interested in the book from page one. I don't read very often because I never can find a good book and this one is very good.
January 3, 2016
Love the characters. Love the story line. Loved the book.
Can't wait to start #3 in the series - "Killing Instinct".
Can't wait to start #3 in the series - "Killing Instinct".
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