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Rogue Team International #3
Cave 13
Joe Ledger and Rogue Team International plunge into mortal peril as this new and deadly arms race threatens to ignite new wars throughout the Middle East.
After years of searching, a new cave filled with Dead Sea Scrolls is found, and among them are bizarre books of actual magic. Terrorist groups and multinational corporations scramble to acquire these treasures in the hopes that magic is the true WMD of the 21st Century. But everyone who goes near those scrolls goes insane. The fabric of reality is shredding. Is this the result of ancient magic, or is it a new bioweapon that fractures the mind of anyone exposed?
Cave 13 pits Joe Ledger against warring factions of ideological terrorism, corporate greed, and massive international crime syndicates in what might well become a new Age of Miracles.
After years of searching, a new cave filled with Dead Sea Scrolls is found, and among them are bizarre books of actual magic. Terrorist groups and multinational corporations scramble to acquire these treasures in the hopes that magic is the true WMD of the 21st Century. But everyone who goes near those scrolls goes insane. The fabric of reality is shredding. Is this the result of ancient magic, or is it a new bioweapon that fractures the mind of anyone exposed?
Cave 13 pits Joe Ledger against warring factions of ideological terrorism, corporate greed, and massive international crime syndicates in what might well become a new Age of Miracles.
509 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2023
About the author
Jonathan Maberry
476 books7,522 followersJONATHAN MABERRY is a New York Times best-seller and Audible #1 bestseller, five-time Bram Stoker Award-winner, anthology editor, comic book writer, executive producer, magazine feature writer, playwright, and writing teacher/lecturer. He is the editor of WEIRD TALES Magazine and president of the International Association of Media Tie-in Writers. He is the recipient of the Inkpot Award, three Scribe Awards, and was named one of the Today’s Top Ten Horror Writers. His books have been sold to more than thirty countries. He writes in several genres including thriller, horror, science fiction, epic fantasy, and mystery; and he writes for adults, middle grade, and young adult.
Jonathan is the creator, editor and co-author of V-WARS, a shared-world vampire anthology from IDW Publishing that was adapted into a NETFLIX series starring Ian Somerhalder (LOST, VAMPIRE DIARIES).
His young adult fiction includes ROT & RUIN (2011; was named in Booklist’s Ten Best Horror Novels for Young Adults, an American Library Association Top Pick, a Bram Stoker and Pennsylvania Keystone to Reading winner; winner of several state Teen Book Awards including the Cricket, Nutmeg and MASL; winner of the Cybils Award, the Eva Perry Mock Printz medal, Dead Letter Best Novel Award, and four Melinda Awards); DUST & DECAY (winner of the 2011 Bram Stoker Award; FLESH & BONE (winner of the Bram Stoker Award; 2012; and FIRE & ASH (August 2013). BROKEN LANDS, the first of a new spin-off series, debuted in 2018 and was followed by LOST ROADS in fall 2020. ROT & RUIN is in development for film by ALCON ENTERTAINMENT and was adapted as a WEBTOON (a serialized comic formatted for cell phones), becoming their #1 horror comic.
His novels include the enormously popular Joe Ledger series from St. Martin’s Griffin (PATIENT ZERO, 2009, winner of the Black Quill and a Bram Stoker Award finalist for Best Novel) and eleven other volumes, most recently RELENTLESS. His middle grade novel, THE NIGHTSIDERS BOOK 1: THE ORPHAN ARMY (Simon & Schuster) was named one the 100 Best Books for Children 2015. His standalone novels include MARS ONE, GLIMPSE, INK, GHOSTWALKERS (based on the DEADLANDS role-playing game), X-FILES ORIGINS: DEVIL’S ADVOCATE, and THE WOLFMAN --winner of the Scribe Award for Best Movie Adaptation
His horror novels include The Pine Deep Trilogy from Pinnacle Books (GHOST ROAD BLUES, 2006, winner of the Bram Stoker Award for Best First Novel and named one of the 25 Best Horror Novels of the New Millennium; DEAD MAN’S SONG, 2007; and BAD MOON RISING, 2008; as well as DEAD OF NIGHT, and its sequels, FALL OF NIGHT, DARK OF NIGHT, and STILL OF NIGHT.
His epic fantasy series, KAGEN THE DAMNED debuts in May 2022. And he just signed to co-author (with Weston Ochse) a new series of military science fiction novels that launches the SLEEPERS series. Jonathan will also be launching a new series of science fiction horror novels for the newly established Weird Tales Presents imprint of Blackstone Publishing.
He is also the editor of three THE X-FILES anthologies; the dark fantasy anthology series, OUT OF TUNE; SCARY OUT THERE, an anthology of horror for teens; and the anthologies ALIENS: BUG HUNT, NIGHTS OF THE LIVING DEAD (with George Romero), JOE LEDGER UNSTOPPABLE (with Bryan Thomas Schmidt); two volumes of mysteries: ALTERNATE SHERLOCKS and THE GAME’S AFOOT (with Michael Ventrella); and ALIENS V PREDATOR: ULTIMATE PREY (with Bryan Thomas Schmidt). He is also the editor of DON’T TURN OUT THE LIGHTS, the official tribute to SCARY STORIES TO TELL IN THE DARK. His next anthology will be ALIENS VS PREDATOR: ULTIMATE PREY (with Bryan Thomas Schmidt), debuting in spring 2022.
Jonathan was an expert on the History Channel documentary series, ZOMBIES: A Living History and TRUE MONSTERS. And he was participated in the commentary track for NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD: REANIMATED.
His many nonfiction works include VAMPIRE UNIVERSE (Citadel Press, 2006); THE CRYPTOPED
Jonathan is the creator, editor and co-author of V-WARS, a shared-world vampire anthology from IDW Publishing that was adapted into a NETFLIX series starring Ian Somerhalder (LOST, VAMPIRE DIARIES).
His young adult fiction includes ROT & RUIN (2011; was named in Booklist’s Ten Best Horror Novels for Young Adults, an American Library Association Top Pick, a Bram Stoker and Pennsylvania Keystone to Reading winner; winner of several state Teen Book Awards including the Cricket, Nutmeg and MASL; winner of the Cybils Award, the Eva Perry Mock Printz medal, Dead Letter Best Novel Award, and four Melinda Awards); DUST & DECAY (winner of the 2011 Bram Stoker Award; FLESH & BONE (winner of the Bram Stoker Award; 2012; and FIRE & ASH (August 2013). BROKEN LANDS, the first of a new spin-off series, debuted in 2018 and was followed by LOST ROADS in fall 2020. ROT & RUIN is in development for film by ALCON ENTERTAINMENT and was adapted as a WEBTOON (a serialized comic formatted for cell phones), becoming their #1 horror comic.
His novels include the enormously popular Joe Ledger series from St. Martin’s Griffin (PATIENT ZERO, 2009, winner of the Black Quill and a Bram Stoker Award finalist for Best Novel) and eleven other volumes, most recently RELENTLESS. His middle grade novel, THE NIGHTSIDERS BOOK 1: THE ORPHAN ARMY (Simon & Schuster) was named one the 100 Best Books for Children 2015. His standalone novels include MARS ONE, GLIMPSE, INK, GHOSTWALKERS (based on the DEADLANDS role-playing game), X-FILES ORIGINS: DEVIL’S ADVOCATE, and THE WOLFMAN --winner of the Scribe Award for Best Movie Adaptation
His horror novels include The Pine Deep Trilogy from Pinnacle Books (GHOST ROAD BLUES, 2006, winner of the Bram Stoker Award for Best First Novel and named one of the 25 Best Horror Novels of the New Millennium; DEAD MAN’S SONG, 2007; and BAD MOON RISING, 2008; as well as DEAD OF NIGHT, and its sequels, FALL OF NIGHT, DARK OF NIGHT, and STILL OF NIGHT.
His epic fantasy series, KAGEN THE DAMNED debuts in May 2022. And he just signed to co-author (with Weston Ochse) a new series of military science fiction novels that launches the SLEEPERS series. Jonathan will also be launching a new series of science fiction horror novels for the newly established Weird Tales Presents imprint of Blackstone Publishing.
He is also the editor of three THE X-FILES anthologies; the dark fantasy anthology series, OUT OF TUNE; SCARY OUT THERE, an anthology of horror for teens; and the anthologies ALIENS: BUG HUNT, NIGHTS OF THE LIVING DEAD (with George Romero), JOE LEDGER UNSTOPPABLE (with Bryan Thomas Schmidt); two volumes of mysteries: ALTERNATE SHERLOCKS and THE GAME’S AFOOT (with Michael Ventrella); and ALIENS V PREDATOR: ULTIMATE PREY (with Bryan Thomas Schmidt). He is also the editor of DON’T TURN OUT THE LIGHTS, the official tribute to SCARY STORIES TO TELL IN THE DARK. His next anthology will be ALIENS VS PREDATOR: ULTIMATE PREY (with Bryan Thomas Schmidt), debuting in spring 2022.
Jonathan was an expert on the History Channel documentary series, ZOMBIES: A Living History and TRUE MONSTERS. And he was participated in the commentary track for NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD: REANIMATED.
His many nonfiction works include VAMPIRE UNIVERSE (Citadel Press, 2006); THE CRYPTOPED
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
August 13, 2023
Action, danger, intrigue, history, tension, and suspense are combined in the latest military thriller by Jonathan Maberry:
Cave 13
. This third book in the Rogue Team International (RTI) series continues to feature Joe Ledger and Havoc Team. RTI are independent troubleshooters who sometimes tackle antagonists on their own and sometimes are asked for help from various countries. Once again, this is a dark and violent thriller with some interludes that are lighter. While most of the novel takes place in Jerusalem, Israel, readers also travel to the Republic of Chad, Greece, and the United States.
While this novel focuses on Joe and his dog Ghost, Havoc Team as well as Top Sims and Bunny. However, other colleagues play important roles that give the reader character continuity. While readers get insight into various antagonists throughout the novel, their specific roles and how everything fits together takes a while to be revealed. Joe is well-developed, compelling, and damaged. While he’s largely apolitical, an idealist, cynical, and has a gift for languages, he is also damaged and hasn’t been in the field for a year. Additionally, others don’t always appreciate his sense of humor.
Once again Maberry hooked me with the fascinating prologue than pulled me immediately into the story. While the plot does jump back and forth in time and between various points of view, it is largely from Joe’s perspective. Readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster.
For an action / military thriller, I loved the style that Maberry used. While there are comprehensive descriptions of people, places and gear, it doesn’t go into minute detail. I believe this approach will make this novel appeal to a wider audience. There are several twists and a big surprise that I didn’t see coming. While a lot was resolved in this book, the ending left a lot of loose threads. I would have liked to have at least some of those wrapped up in this novel.
Overall, this novel is a shockingly dark, disturbing, and an emotional ride. Be aware that there is plenty of violence and emotional turmoil in this story. Themes include fitness for duty, terrorism, found family, friendship, and much more.
This is the seventh book I have read by this author who writes in a variety of genres. I can’t wait to read another one by him. Maberry’s books are well-written with characters that have depth and there is an interesting plot where the story line pulls the reader in immediately. I believe those readers who enjoy action thrillers and military thrillers that are dark will want to read this book.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Griffin and Jonathan Maberry provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 29, 2023.
---------------------------------------
My 4.26 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
While this novel focuses on Joe and his dog Ghost, Havoc Team as well as Top Sims and Bunny. However, other colleagues play important roles that give the reader character continuity. While readers get insight into various antagonists throughout the novel, their specific roles and how everything fits together takes a while to be revealed. Joe is well-developed, compelling, and damaged. While he’s largely apolitical, an idealist, cynical, and has a gift for languages, he is also damaged and hasn’t been in the field for a year. Additionally, others don’t always appreciate his sense of humor.
Once again Maberry hooked me with the fascinating prologue than pulled me immediately into the story. While the plot does jump back and forth in time and between various points of view, it is largely from Joe’s perspective. Readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster.
For an action / military thriller, I loved the style that Maberry used. While there are comprehensive descriptions of people, places and gear, it doesn’t go into minute detail. I believe this approach will make this novel appeal to a wider audience. There are several twists and a big surprise that I didn’t see coming. While a lot was resolved in this book, the ending left a lot of loose threads. I would have liked to have at least some of those wrapped up in this novel.
Overall, this novel is a shockingly dark, disturbing, and an emotional ride. Be aware that there is plenty of violence and emotional turmoil in this story. Themes include fitness for duty, terrorism, found family, friendship, and much more.
This is the seventh book I have read by this author who writes in a variety of genres. I can’t wait to read another one by him. Maberry’s books are well-written with characters that have depth and there is an interesting plot where the story line pulls the reader in immediately. I believe those readers who enjoy action thrillers and military thrillers that are dark will want to read this book.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Griffin and Jonathan Maberry provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 29, 2023.
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My 4.26 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
July 1, 2023
My thanks to St. Martin's Press, Netgalley and my main man...Jonathan Maberry!
So, I must confess that this is probably my least favorite Ledger book.
Yeah, it comes as a shock to me too! This one just seemed a bit off.
I've been reading everything Maberry for years, and especially these books, but if I'm honest, "I try!" I could have skipped this one and it probably wouldn't have even left a blip on the screen.
What's worse?
Well, in this case. For me?
I can't even recall what the book was about, and I just finished it a week ago!
That just doesn't happen with a Ledger book! Yet, somehow it did.
So, I'm giving this one a soft pass, and just say that eventually there will be a blah book. This is mine.
Looking forward to the next. Ledger, kicking ass and taking names!
So, I must confess that this is probably my least favorite Ledger book.
Yeah, it comes as a shock to me too! This one just seemed a bit off.
I've been reading everything Maberry for years, and especially these books, but if I'm honest, "I try!" I could have skipped this one and it probably wouldn't have even left a blip on the screen.
What's worse?
Well, in this case. For me?
I can't even recall what the book was about, and I just finished it a week ago!
That just doesn't happen with a Ledger book! Yet, somehow it did.
So, I'm giving this one a soft pass, and just say that eventually there will be a blah book. This is mine.
Looking forward to the next. Ledger, kicking ass and taking names!
September 18, 2023
An Explosive Rollercoaster Ride of Action, Intrigue, and Emotional Depth
Book Information
"Cave 13" authored by Jonathan Maberry, is a 528-page thriller published on August 29, 2023. The audio version is narrated by Ray Porter and spans 19 hours and 5 minutes. This is the 3rd book in Maberry’s Rogue Team International series. Thank you to MacMillan Audio for providing me with an advance reader copy of this book for review.
Summary
Joe Ledger and Rogue Team International are called to engage as a dangerous arms race threatens to spark new wars in the Middle East. A newly discovered cave holds Dead Sea Scrolls with books of actual magic, sought after by terrorists and corporations. However, those who approach the scrolls go insane, raising questions about whether it's ancient magic or a new bioweapon causing this madness.
My Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed Jonathan Maberry's latest offering, "Cave 13." This book is a non-stop action-packed thriller from start to finish, delivering a pulse-pounding experience that will keep you glued to the pages. Maberry doesn't just write a story; he crafts an experience that will haunt your thoughts long after you've closed the book. This is book three in a spinoff series and while it can be read as a standalone, I can't help but wonder if reading the first two books in the series would have enhanced my enjoyment even more.
One of the standout features of "Cave 13" is Maberry's ability to craft comprehensive descriptions that immerse you in the story's vivid world. The book boasts multiple storylines that intertwine seamlessly, creating layers of intrigue that keep you guessing. There are several unexpected twists and, most impressively, a major surprise that, despite the subtle clues scattered throughout, caught me completely off guard. It's a rare treat when a book can genuinely surprise its readers.
It's worth noting that "Cave 13" doesn't shy away from violence and turmoil. The story revolves around a paramilitary group fighting terrorism, resulting in a high body count. Maberry's descriptive style extends to the depiction of violence and its physical and emotional consequences on the characters. What sets this apart from your typical thriller is the addition of "magic" elements, which infuse the violence with a trippy and hallucinatory quality, making it a unique reading experience.
While action and violence are prominent, "Cave 13" also delves deeply into interpersonal relationships, adding layers of emotional depth to the narrative. The characters are brilliantly developed, with Joe Ledger standing out as a multi-dimensional protagonist. Maberry not only focuses on their skill sets and backgrounds but also delves into their emotional journeys. Many of these characters have faced dark events in their past, and the novel explores how these experiences influence their thoughts and actions in the present. The introspective moments add complexity rarely seen in military thrillers.
So, a few minor quibbles, "Cave 13" is not a quick read due to its length, so readers looking for a rapid-fire adventure may need to adjust their expectations. Additionally, while the vivid descriptions of mind-altering "magic" are fascinating, there are instances where they feel slightly overused, and one particular use of magic to advance the plot seemed out of sync with the characteristics of every other instance. The thematic thread of "magic" could have been developed further (as was suggested in the book summary) to match the depth of other story elements.
The audiobook version, narrated by Ray Porter, is amazing. Porter's exceptional voice, impeccable timing, spot-on intonation, masterful accents, and perfectly paced delivery enhance the already gripping story. As I write this review, I am heading it read by him in my head and I have to say it makes the review sound much better. His narration is so spot-on that it's like he's whispering the secrets of the universe directly into your ear - a performance that audiobook lovers won't want to miss. It's one of the finest audiobook performances I've experienced, and I'll be actively seeking out more of his work.
Recommendation
"Cave 13" is a Pandora's box of suspense and surprises – once you open it, you won't be able to look away. It’s a thrilling addition to Jonathan Maberry's literary universe, offering a heart-pounding mix of action, well-crafted characters, and emotional depth. A captivating journey that will leave you eager for more. Highly recommended.
Rating
4.5 RTI Stars
Book Information
"Cave 13" authored by Jonathan Maberry, is a 528-page thriller published on August 29, 2023. The audio version is narrated by Ray Porter and spans 19 hours and 5 minutes. This is the 3rd book in Maberry’s Rogue Team International series. Thank you to MacMillan Audio for providing me with an advance reader copy of this book for review.
Summary
Joe Ledger and Rogue Team International are called to engage as a dangerous arms race threatens to spark new wars in the Middle East. A newly discovered cave holds Dead Sea Scrolls with books of actual magic, sought after by terrorists and corporations. However, those who approach the scrolls go insane, raising questions about whether it's ancient magic or a new bioweapon causing this madness.
My Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed Jonathan Maberry's latest offering, "Cave 13." This book is a non-stop action-packed thriller from start to finish, delivering a pulse-pounding experience that will keep you glued to the pages. Maberry doesn't just write a story; he crafts an experience that will haunt your thoughts long after you've closed the book. This is book three in a spinoff series and while it can be read as a standalone, I can't help but wonder if reading the first two books in the series would have enhanced my enjoyment even more.
One of the standout features of "Cave 13" is Maberry's ability to craft comprehensive descriptions that immerse you in the story's vivid world. The book boasts multiple storylines that intertwine seamlessly, creating layers of intrigue that keep you guessing. There are several unexpected twists and, most impressively, a major surprise that, despite the subtle clues scattered throughout, caught me completely off guard. It's a rare treat when a book can genuinely surprise its readers.
It's worth noting that "Cave 13" doesn't shy away from violence and turmoil. The story revolves around a paramilitary group fighting terrorism, resulting in a high body count. Maberry's descriptive style extends to the depiction of violence and its physical and emotional consequences on the characters. What sets this apart from your typical thriller is the addition of "magic" elements, which infuse the violence with a trippy and hallucinatory quality, making it a unique reading experience.
While action and violence are prominent, "Cave 13" also delves deeply into interpersonal relationships, adding layers of emotional depth to the narrative. The characters are brilliantly developed, with Joe Ledger standing out as a multi-dimensional protagonist. Maberry not only focuses on their skill sets and backgrounds but also delves into their emotional journeys. Many of these characters have faced dark events in their past, and the novel explores how these experiences influence their thoughts and actions in the present. The introspective moments add complexity rarely seen in military thrillers.
So, a few minor quibbles, "Cave 13" is not a quick read due to its length, so readers looking for a rapid-fire adventure may need to adjust their expectations. Additionally, while the vivid descriptions of mind-altering "magic" are fascinating, there are instances where they feel slightly overused, and one particular use of magic to advance the plot seemed out of sync with the characteristics of every other instance. The thematic thread of "magic" could have been developed further (as was suggested in the book summary) to match the depth of other story elements.
The audiobook version, narrated by Ray Porter, is amazing. Porter's exceptional voice, impeccable timing, spot-on intonation, masterful accents, and perfectly paced delivery enhance the already gripping story. As I write this review, I am heading it read by him in my head and I have to say it makes the review sound much better. His narration is so spot-on that it's like he's whispering the secrets of the universe directly into your ear - a performance that audiobook lovers won't want to miss. It's one of the finest audiobook performances I've experienced, and I'll be actively seeking out more of his work.
Recommendation
"Cave 13" is a Pandora's box of suspense and surprises – once you open it, you won't be able to look away. It’s a thrilling addition to Jonathan Maberry's literary universe, offering a heart-pounding mix of action, well-crafted characters, and emotional depth. A captivating journey that will leave you eager for more. Highly recommended.
Rating
4.5 RTI Stars
August 30, 2023
Available now!
I loved how Maberry set this one up. He starts at nearly the end and then goes back to fill in the reader as to how Rogue Team got into that situation.
This book is exactly what every fan of Joe Ledger longs for. Action packed, with alternating chapters from various points of view. A new, very dangerous villain appears, and a few characters we already know and love appear as well.
Will Joe lose any members of Rogue Team on this mission? Will Ghost make it through alive? Will Joe survive "the darkness" that has enveloped him? You'll have to read this to find out!
I hope that you do because CAVE 13 gets my highest recommendation!
*Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest feedback. This is it!-
I loved how Maberry set this one up. He starts at nearly the end and then goes back to fill in the reader as to how Rogue Team got into that situation.
This book is exactly what every fan of Joe Ledger longs for. Action packed, with alternating chapters from various points of view. A new, very dangerous villain appears, and a few characters we already know and love appear as well.
Will Joe lose any members of Rogue Team on this mission? Will Ghost make it through alive? Will Joe survive "the darkness" that has enveloped him? You'll have to read this to find out!
I hope that you do because CAVE 13 gets my highest recommendation!
*Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest feedback. This is it!-
August 17, 2023
Nothing I say will describe how much I loved this audiobook. It feels like forever since the last book.
Why do I love the Toys & Church characters so much!!
Joe is somewhat recovered and tasked to do something he considers being sidelined but nope he stumbles upon … a world threat!
The gang is back plus some great side characters and a bunch of call backs to the mustache twirling bad guys of yore.
Fun!
Fast paced!
Occasionally gruesome!
You don’t need to read the prior books but you’ll have a much richer, fuller experience. Read them all! They’re awesome!
Writing is impeccable. The dialog is believable and at times hilarious. I love Joe’s wit & sarcasm and Ray Porter will always by Joe Ledger in my mind … how many times has Joe Ledger read me other books lol.
Thank you NetGalley & Macmillan Audio … this was my most anticipated book this year and it didn’t disappoint. I can’t wait for the next in the series.
6+ stars
Why do I love the Toys & Church characters so much!!
Joe is somewhat recovered and tasked to do something he considers being sidelined but nope he stumbles upon … a world threat!
The gang is back plus some great side characters and a bunch of call backs to the mustache twirling bad guys of yore.
Fun!
Fast paced!
Occasionally gruesome!
You don’t need to read the prior books but you’ll have a much richer, fuller experience. Read them all! They’re awesome!
Writing is impeccable. The dialog is believable and at times hilarious. I love Joe’s wit & sarcasm and Ray Porter will always by Joe Ledger in my mind … how many times has Joe Ledger read me other books lol.
Thank you NetGalley & Macmillan Audio … this was my most anticipated book this year and it didn’t disappoint. I can’t wait for the next in the series.
6+ stars
June 9, 2023
Another weird and wonderful Rogue Team International. The crew has left behind the Department of Military Science and moved their headquarters to Corfu. Mr. Church and the home team send Joe Ledger and his Havoc Team into the thick of the weirdness. Does magic exist? Can cobras be conjured out of thin air? What is causing the hallucinations? Mr. Miracle, a VIP televangelist, hawks his wares, stolen from the Qumran caves. A new cave is accidently discovered by an ISIS team; it contains literally tons of new Coptic writings and scrolls, some may even be from the Library at Alexandria. More importantly, however, an ergot compound is discovered that, when refined, will destroy your mind. And then, four nukes disappear from Israel. What could possibly go wrong? Just about everything and Joe Ledger and his team are caught squarely in the middle. Always recommended for an adrenaline ride.
October 2, 2023
Another great action story rom cover to cover (can we still say that with an audio or e-book). Every book in this series has a great plot device that sadly could actually happen in today's world. Hop on board the action train and let the Joe Ledger books run you through some adventures. Very Recommended
May 26, 2024
As always, Mr Maberry keeps me entertained.
February 13, 2024
Joe Ledger and Havoc team really get beaten up in this book and if one more person kicks or punches Ghost into a wall, I am going to seriously kick some ass! This was a great book as always.
August 16, 2023
*Goodreads Advanced Copy*
I found this story to be incredibly written. The pace of the story kept my interest. The author had an interesting way of writing some chapters in first-person (the main character's view) and switching to third-person for all other chapters. It is infrequent when an author can carry this off. I find it usually becomes too confusing bouncing back and forth between viewpoints. Maberry pulled it off marvelously.
I must say I definitely did not see the twist that would be revealed toward the end. This was a pleasant surprise. Looking back I can see the subtle hints, but they were perfectly sprinkled in.
This story definitely has a darker feel than any of his earlier books that I have read, but I absolutely loved it. It certainly makes me want to get some of the books that I have missed from Maberry.
The one area I was slightly disappointed in was the blurb. It mentions magic which seems to be a secondary plot line in the story. In fact, it almost seems like it was only introduced to hint at a future book.
I still absolutely recommend Cave 13 to all fans of Maberry and fans of thriller stories with a tinge of supernatural added in. I believe they will definitely enjoy this story.
I found this story to be incredibly written. The pace of the story kept my interest. The author had an interesting way of writing some chapters in first-person (the main character's view) and switching to third-person for all other chapters. It is infrequent when an author can carry this off. I find it usually becomes too confusing bouncing back and forth between viewpoints. Maberry pulled it off marvelously.
I must say I definitely did not see the twist that would be revealed toward the end. This was a pleasant surprise. Looking back I can see the subtle hints, but they were perfectly sprinkled in.
This story definitely has a darker feel than any of his earlier books that I have read, but I absolutely loved it. It certainly makes me want to get some of the books that I have missed from Maberry.
The one area I was slightly disappointed in was the blurb. It mentions magic which seems to be a secondary plot line in the story. In fact, it almost seems like it was only introduced to hint at a future book.
I still absolutely recommend Cave 13 to all fans of Maberry and fans of thriller stories with a tinge of supernatural added in. I believe they will definitely enjoy this story.
September 2, 2023
Review to follow. Covid stinks. Yes, I'm being a baby about it, but it's my first time having it. Thanks to Mr. Maberry for giving me something to think about besides the fact that I can't breathe and every part of my body weighs at least twenty tons.
May 5, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and St Martins Press for providing a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have been a big fan of this series ever since I read the first Joe Ledger book in Aug 2022. Since then I have been on a binge to catch up to current. I really enjoy how the series handles the "weird science" conflicts that show up, seemingly but never actually supernatural, always boiling down to crazy people taking their brilliant hard to work to evil extremes.
Joe's sanity is questioned by everybody but Mr Church after he has "recovered" from the Darkness of the last two books. He is back in the field....but is he ready? What do ancient artifacts found in caves in the Holy Land have to do with events that can only seemingly be explained with magic? Maberry keeps up the pace in this addition with multiple storylines that intersect, bringing in characters from previous novels we havent seen in a while and a brand new crossover character in a fascinating way that brings new possibilities to the origins of Mr Church (no spoilers). The main plotline is resolved but many others arent, leaving lots of places to go with lots of new players.
I am thoroughly hooked on the series and cant wait for the next one.
I have been a big fan of this series ever since I read the first Joe Ledger book in Aug 2022. Since then I have been on a binge to catch up to current. I really enjoy how the series handles the "weird science" conflicts that show up, seemingly but never actually supernatural, always boiling down to crazy people taking their brilliant hard to work to evil extremes.
Joe's sanity is questioned by everybody but Mr Church after he has "recovered" from the Darkness of the last two books. He is back in the field....but is he ready? What do ancient artifacts found in caves in the Holy Land have to do with events that can only seemingly be explained with magic? Maberry keeps up the pace in this addition with multiple storylines that intersect, bringing in characters from previous novels we havent seen in a while and a brand new crossover character in a fascinating way that brings new possibilities to the origins of Mr Church (no spoilers). The main plotline is resolved but many others arent, leaving lots of places to go with lots of new players.
I am thoroughly hooked on the series and cant wait for the next one.
September 25, 2023
Midway through this book - I asked myself, "Do I really need to read more Ledger books?" The initial answer was no, my response got swayed a bit when the action picked up at the end, but finally, I don't see any reason to change my mind.
The plot was scattered all over the globe, literally, and it kept getting more scattered by the page. There was nothing new in this book - Ledger has already covered all these bases. The usual Muslim/ISIS villains, a deadly bioweapon, the team getting mind-controlled and fighting among themselves - it's all there, all been done repeatedly in the past. Even all of the plot points don't get resolved by the end of this book, we're supposed to pick up the next book to understand what actually happened here.
The Ledger series was a breath of fresh air when I first picked up the initial 3 books. It isn't anymore.
The plot was scattered all over the globe, literally, and it kept getting more scattered by the page. There was nothing new in this book - Ledger has already covered all these bases. The usual Muslim/ISIS villains, a deadly bioweapon, the team getting mind-controlled and fighting among themselves - it's all there, all been done repeatedly in the past. Even all of the plot points don't get resolved by the end of this book, we're supposed to pick up the next book to understand what actually happened here.
The Ledger series was a breath of fresh air when I first picked up the initial 3 books. It isn't anymore.
May 3, 2023
Coherent review soon but 😱😱😱
August 27, 2023
In this one, Joe Ledger and his team seem to be in serious trouble....and then the story starts.
A business man with a strange obsession for the Dead Sea Scrolls, known as Mr. Miracle, ends up on Rogue Team's radar. People are seeing strange hallucinations and acting out harming themselves and others.
Ledger is freshly back from his break from sanity in the last case. His friends and team feel they need to keep a close eye on him. This current problem will end up testing everyone's grip on reality.
This is book 3 in the RTI spin-off series and book 13 overall in the Joe Ledger series. You don't need to have read them all before now, but if you haven't, you really should. I was so happy to see one of my favorite characters, Alexander Chismer (Toys), have a decently active appearance.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Griffin for the opportunity to read this e-ARC of the next adventure in my favorite series.
A business man with a strange obsession for the Dead Sea Scrolls, known as Mr. Miracle, ends up on Rogue Team's radar. People are seeing strange hallucinations and acting out harming themselves and others.
Ledger is freshly back from his break from sanity in the last case. His friends and team feel they need to keep a close eye on him. This current problem will end up testing everyone's grip on reality.
This is book 3 in the RTI spin-off series and book 13 overall in the Joe Ledger series. You don't need to have read them all before now, but if you haven't, you really should. I was so happy to see one of my favorite characters, Alexander Chismer (Toys), have a decently active appearance.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Griffin for the opportunity to read this e-ARC of the next adventure in my favorite series.
September 21, 2023
Oh, this was so much fun.
I was so glad to be back with Joe Ledger and the team. And such devious horrors in this one! Truly chilling.
I still had just a touch of trouble with the non-linear storytelling - hey, I'm a straightforward timeline kind of reader - but I did get used to it and by a quarter of the way through, I'd forgotten my issues and was just enjoying the story.
More Joe, please!
I was so glad to be back with Joe Ledger and the team. And such devious horrors in this one! Truly chilling.
I still had just a touch of trouble with the non-linear storytelling - hey, I'm a straightforward timeline kind of reader - but I did get used to it and by a quarter of the way through, I'd forgotten my issues and was just enjoying the story.
More Joe, please!
May 20, 2023
Yet another tense, edge-of-your-seat Joe Ledger thriller. Keeps you hooked right until the end and leaves you with a deep dread of what is coming next for Joe and Havoc Team.
September 9, 2023
I keep holding my breath with this series, thinking each next book is going to be the prequel for the Benny Imura series - because in that story all the beloved characters here will die. Except for Joe. Because in that world the whole world dies.
But this isn't that, thank goodness. Crazy stuff going on, sure, but at least it's not the end of the world. Joe gets a little over the top in this one - emotions going all over the place which makes him somewhat unreliable as a military leader. He's a pretty emotional guy. But he's also Joe with his multiple personalities and trauma and found family and horrific job, so there you go. Pretty standard stuff for him.
I have to say, I like the supernatural element. I like it because it's incidental to the story and yet it has a profound impact. Well done Mr. Maberry.
And does it even need to be said that Ray Porter is Ledger? No other voice will do.
But this isn't that, thank goodness. Crazy stuff going on, sure, but at least it's not the end of the world. Joe gets a little over the top in this one - emotions going all over the place which makes him somewhat unreliable as a military leader. He's a pretty emotional guy. But he's also Joe with his multiple personalities and trauma and found family and horrific job, so there you go. Pretty standard stuff for him.
I have to say, I like the supernatural element. I like it because it's incidental to the story and yet it has a profound impact. Well done Mr. Maberry.
And does it even need to be said that Ray Porter is Ledger? No other voice will do.
October 13, 2023
This is a hard one for me to rate and review. I love JM, I have attended some of his coffee shop events when he lived here in the Philly area and own pretty much all of his works but I am kind of getting tired of Joe Ledger. Like Drizzt, Harry Dresden and others, it’s time to get retired.
The story is formulaic and filled with the standard red herrings, character interactions, and the ending, where well written, was pretty much what I expected.
Did it need to be 400+ pages? No.
Did it need to keep jumping all over the place? No.
Will I still keep reading these until Ledger is in the ground? Yup
The story is formulaic and filled with the standard red herrings, character interactions, and the ending, where well written, was pretty much what I expected.
Did it need to be 400+ pages? No.
Did it need to keep jumping all over the place? No.
Will I still keep reading these until Ledger is in the ground? Yup
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2023
Fast paced, action packed, thrilling read. This was my first book by this author despite it being the third book in the series. I will definitely be reading more from this author. There are some disturbing things in this book (I.e. the kids in the beginning) and may not be suitable for all audiences but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
July 31, 2023
When I was picked for an ARC of this book I had no idea it was third in a series, but it was giving series action-adventure vibes with a bit of magic (read: kinda Indiana Jones-ish).
The book starts off with a BANG; we know immediately that our main character, Joe, is in peril and things are about to get the worst they've been, when we suddenly flash back to the beginning. What follows is a tail of missing nuclear weapons, the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, a super villain, and a race against time in the Middle East for the human race.
I enjoyed this book and all the adventure that went with it. It's a long book with a lot of moving parts, it was different than anything I'd read before, but it sounded so good and I am so happy I got to read this one!
NOTE: No points deducted for this, just want to comment that there are a lot of characters who have clearly been through a lot in the previous two books, so there is a lot of diving into their current mental state and progress. It doesn't deter from the story at all, just a note for fellow readers to not let that lose you. I definitely would love to go back to book one and start reading!
The book starts off with a BANG; we know immediately that our main character, Joe, is in peril and things are about to get the worst they've been, when we suddenly flash back to the beginning. What follows is a tail of missing nuclear weapons, the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, a super villain, and a race against time in the Middle East for the human race.
I enjoyed this book and all the adventure that went with it. It's a long book with a lot of moving parts, it was different than anything I'd read before, but it sounded so good and I am so happy I got to read this one!
NOTE: No points deducted for this, just want to comment that there are a lot of characters who have clearly been through a lot in the previous two books, so there is a lot of diving into their current mental state and progress. It doesn't deter from the story at all, just a note for fellow readers to not let that lose you. I definitely would love to go back to book one and start reading!
September 2, 2023
This was a tough book for Joe and everyone else on the team and around them. Lots of tough hits and some losses. It didn't help that during their battles some of their greatest fears surrounded them. It's going to be hard for them to come back from this.
October 5, 2023
What a thrilling ride with RTI, Joe Ledger & his Havoc team. Full of action, adventure, humor & seemingly super-natural elements. The author does a superb job of weaving several threads together for a complex story leaving many unanswered questions such as the killer cobras appearing & disappearing out of thin air, and possibly the reemergence of an old foe once known as “Nicodemus” and the mysterious Mr. October. I am curious to learn more about the boxes sealed by the Egyptians and the second box by the Hebrew in the next Joe Ledger novel. I highly recommend reading the prior Joe Ledger novels before reading this story for a richer experience.
October 8, 2023
I love all Joe Ledger books. This one did not disappoint. The development of other characters, specifically Toys and Church added to the series. I also have another series to read after Jack the Repairman was introduced.
October 24, 2023
Been a few years since I read a Joe Ledger thriller. Glad I did. Now to read the first Rogue Team International thriller, which I already have on my Kindle! Plus, this thriller features Repairman Jack, one of my favourite characters. A bonus for me.
August 14, 2024
Another excellent outing with Joe Ledger and friends!!!
June 6, 2024
This was so much more fun than I expected ! Not my typical genre but I loved his writing style! It drew me in and I needed to go on this adventure . I haven’t read the rest of the books in this series but even as a standalone it hold up! I’m sure I’d have much more context if I read the other books. Didn’t need it. Fun, political, action, intrigue, hunky muscle-y heros? ! In not sure if hey were meat to be …. But I pictured all of the characters from The Ministries of Ungentlmanly Warfare for this one . Coincidence? I think not !
August 30, 2023
I am going to preface this by saying that I'm a huge fan of this series, and all of the books in the preceding series. I pretty much adore Joe Ledger. I will also say that this book was not my favorite.
We are deep into this spinoff that has Joe and the guys now working with Mr. Church for RTI. They've gone global. The last book had us following along as Joe went off the reservation and dealt with the retribution for the murder of his family. It was a gut punch and a hard and difficult road. But, we made it through.
This book starts fairly soon after the events of the last book and for some reason, the writing felt different to me. The feelings that were trying to be portrayed felt more "superficial" and not as in depth as we have come to expect. I really can't explain this thought other than to say that phrases like "we were stunned" "shocked" "speechless" "the world has changed"....those type of phrases seemed to be thrown out so commonly and often that it took away from the situation and created the opposite feeling for me. I know, I know, that probably doesn't make sense....
Don't get me wrong, this was another thrilling, action and drama packed book filled with awful events being thrown at the Havoc Team, but it didn't FEEL as real to me. Plus, the ending wasn't tied up and we were left with many, many hanging loose ends. As a long time fan, I'm okay with that, but it needs to be said.
I honestly don't remember how many books we have now had with Joe and his team, but I also have to say that Joe is getting more...ummm, romantic...in his older age. I can't remember a book that went into as much detail about his love and feelings for Junie. Nothing wrong with that at all, but my eyebrows definitely went up a couple of times and I thought, "Joe...."
Things are bleak, but then again, when aren't they? It will be interesting to see where things go from here.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone.
We are deep into this spinoff that has Joe and the guys now working with Mr. Church for RTI. They've gone global. The last book had us following along as Joe went off the reservation and dealt with the retribution for the murder of his family. It was a gut punch and a hard and difficult road. But, we made it through.
This book starts fairly soon after the events of the last book and for some reason, the writing felt different to me. The feelings that were trying to be portrayed felt more "superficial" and not as in depth as we have come to expect. I really can't explain this thought other than to say that phrases like "we were stunned" "shocked" "speechless" "the world has changed"....those type of phrases seemed to be thrown out so commonly and often that it took away from the situation and created the opposite feeling for me. I know, I know, that probably doesn't make sense....
Don't get me wrong, this was another thrilling, action and drama packed book filled with awful events being thrown at the Havoc Team, but it didn't FEEL as real to me. Plus, the ending wasn't tied up and we were left with many, many hanging loose ends. As a long time fan, I'm okay with that, but it needs to be said.
I honestly don't remember how many books we have now had with Joe and his team, but I also have to say that Joe is getting more...ummm, romantic...in his older age. I can't remember a book that went into as much detail about his love and feelings for Junie. Nothing wrong with that at all, but my eyebrows definitely went up a couple of times and I thought, "Joe...."
Things are bleak, but then again, when aren't they? It will be interesting to see where things go from here.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone.
July 11, 2023
The thirteenth installment of the Joe Ledger saga (third in the Rouge Team International series, the previous ten belong to the DMS series), and it continues to deliver all the goods you want and need from a Ledger adventure, though the balance of action/history/drama/horror may be skewed in a different way than you'd expect.
The political undertones (and in some cases overt and direct tones) remain very present in this newest entry. We don't have monsters this time around. We have nukes and jihadists and terrorists. We have copper scrolls and a hint of genuine magic. We have bioweapons that make people hallucinate vividly, and wildly, before they destroy themselves and those around them. I won't lie, my preference for these novels has always been skewed more toward the supernatural entries, the ones with monsters. I think every one that has had mutants or zombies or vampires has gotten five stars for me, so clearly I do have a bias. It may be a turn-off for readers expecting some kind of mythological monsters or biblical/demonic presence, but this was a captivating and engaging mission for Ledger and gang.
I understand this is an advanced reader copy, so truthfully I'm not sure how much changes between now and print. I will say, some of the back-and-forth timelines with the interludes got confusing at times. It was a little all over the place, and I found myself having to double-check the chapter headings to realign myself. There was also a lot of repetition. We got the same information at least three times in almost every instance. As someone who is trying to get published and sell short stories and has the notion of editing hammered into my head at every conceivable turn, I feel like a lotta that repeated exposition could have been easily cut. Trust your reader to be following the story and trust that they're as engaged as you are writing it. You don't gotta prove it's a cool idea or constantly remind us of the plot.
This is a more introspective book than one might expect from Ledger. Given everything that's happened to these characters, how broken most of them are, it does make sense. I love the action and crave it in these books so on a first glance I was expecting a bit more. More violence and carnage. But when I stopped and reflected on the book I was shocked with how deeply it touched me. With how much I was moved by the pain of these men and women. Sure, there's plenty of violence. Most of it is through a surrealistic lens. Hallucinations and a strange jumble of comedy, barbaric violence, horror, and straight-up heartbreak. That might not be everyone's cup of tea. I prefer the gritty savagery of some of the other entries, but I understood the point Maberry was making here.
Life is confusing. It's hopelessly hopeful. It's incessantly bleak while also infused with an undying lightness. That's conveyed here, albeit with varied results. Maberry repeatedly makes note of the fact that sometimes shit just happens that way. Nothing grandiose or epic about it, shit just happens. He really leans into that in this novel, especially in the climax where just as much action happens on the page as it does off. It's up to the reader to either identify with that or condemn it. In the end, I heavily identified.
Characters die in this novel, so brace yourselves. It's emotional, but it does tie into the point I just made. You're either gunna feel it and be upset or you're gunna wish for something more intense (especially since a couple deceased characters are mentioned repeatedly and each one had far more memorable death scenes). Do some characters still have seemingly impenetrable plot armor? Absolutely. Does this lessen the impact of what happens here? Not for me.
Cave 13 seems like a bridge novel to me. It's where the RTI is now, but it's not where they will be. Plenty of things are set up for future installments, but the novel itself seems like it's floating in that middle space of what was and what will be. In ways that's enjoyable to read and in others you kinda wish the next book was already available. The mileage may vary here. We've seen bridge novels like this in the franchise before, and that actually makes me excited. Cuz if anyone is going to capitalize and hit home hard in the next one it's Maberry and Joe Ledger.
This is probably a 3.5 star book for me ordinarily, but there was something about it that made me comfortable hitting it with 4. I was really impacted by some of the introspection. The end, with Joe seeing his lost loves, made me choke up a bit. At least one of the major character deaths made me openly angry and sad. And, despite the repetition and almost completely Joe-less chunks (and I do mean chunks) I couldn't put the book down. That's masterful writing from someone who is completely immersed and in control of the world he's created.
Maberry has an epic and enthralling series on his hands. The fact most of my complaints are that I wanted more action and more Joe just serve to prove that point. I love these characters, these "people", and I love the missions they go on. I'm with this until the wheels fall off, and I think any other fan would completely agree. This is not an entry someone could just pick up and read. It's not the most violent or the wildest or the most memorable. But it is one that really makes us sit and reflect. Not just on the characters and the horrors they've been through, but in some way the pain we've all been through in our own personal hells. That's a pretty amazing thing to pull off in a sci-fi, action, horror book and it deserves that credit.
I cannot wait for the next entry, and I have all the faith in the world that Maberry is just going to keep upping the stakes. But this book made me realize that he might now be settling in to rip our hearts out too. Sick as it sounds, I'm here for it. The war is the war after all.
(*I received this book as an ARC from a GoodReads giveaway I entered*)
The political undertones (and in some cases overt and direct tones) remain very present in this newest entry. We don't have monsters this time around. We have nukes and jihadists and terrorists. We have copper scrolls and a hint of genuine magic. We have bioweapons that make people hallucinate vividly, and wildly, before they destroy themselves and those around them. I won't lie, my preference for these novels has always been skewed more toward the supernatural entries, the ones with monsters. I think every one that has had mutants or zombies or vampires has gotten five stars for me, so clearly I do have a bias. It may be a turn-off for readers expecting some kind of mythological monsters or biblical/demonic presence, but this was a captivating and engaging mission for Ledger and gang.
I understand this is an advanced reader copy, so truthfully I'm not sure how much changes between now and print. I will say, some of the back-and-forth timelines with the interludes got confusing at times. It was a little all over the place, and I found myself having to double-check the chapter headings to realign myself. There was also a lot of repetition. We got the same information at least three times in almost every instance. As someone who is trying to get published and sell short stories and has the notion of editing hammered into my head at every conceivable turn, I feel like a lotta that repeated exposition could have been easily cut. Trust your reader to be following the story and trust that they're as engaged as you are writing it. You don't gotta prove it's a cool idea or constantly remind us of the plot.
This is a more introspective book than one might expect from Ledger. Given everything that's happened to these characters, how broken most of them are, it does make sense. I love the action and crave it in these books so on a first glance I was expecting a bit more. More violence and carnage. But when I stopped and reflected on the book I was shocked with how deeply it touched me. With how much I was moved by the pain of these men and women. Sure, there's plenty of violence. Most of it is through a surrealistic lens. Hallucinations and a strange jumble of comedy, barbaric violence, horror, and straight-up heartbreak. That might not be everyone's cup of tea. I prefer the gritty savagery of some of the other entries, but I understood the point Maberry was making here.
Life is confusing. It's hopelessly hopeful. It's incessantly bleak while also infused with an undying lightness. That's conveyed here, albeit with varied results. Maberry repeatedly makes note of the fact that sometimes shit just happens that way. Nothing grandiose or epic about it, shit just happens. He really leans into that in this novel, especially in the climax where just as much action happens on the page as it does off. It's up to the reader to either identify with that or condemn it. In the end, I heavily identified.
Characters die in this novel, so brace yourselves. It's emotional, but it does tie into the point I just made. You're either gunna feel it and be upset or you're gunna wish for something more intense (especially since a couple deceased characters are mentioned repeatedly and each one had far more memorable death scenes). Do some characters still have seemingly impenetrable plot armor? Absolutely. Does this lessen the impact of what happens here? Not for me.
Cave 13 seems like a bridge novel to me. It's where the RTI is now, but it's not where they will be. Plenty of things are set up for future installments, but the novel itself seems like it's floating in that middle space of what was and what will be. In ways that's enjoyable to read and in others you kinda wish the next book was already available. The mileage may vary here. We've seen bridge novels like this in the franchise before, and that actually makes me excited. Cuz if anyone is going to capitalize and hit home hard in the next one it's Maberry and Joe Ledger.
This is probably a 3.5 star book for me ordinarily, but there was something about it that made me comfortable hitting it with 4. I was really impacted by some of the introspection. The end, with Joe seeing his lost loves, made me choke up a bit. At least one of the major character deaths made me openly angry and sad. And, despite the repetition and almost completely Joe-less chunks (and I do mean chunks) I couldn't put the book down. That's masterful writing from someone who is completely immersed and in control of the world he's created.
Maberry has an epic and enthralling series on his hands. The fact most of my complaints are that I wanted more action and more Joe just serve to prove that point. I love these characters, these "people", and I love the missions they go on. I'm with this until the wheels fall off, and I think any other fan would completely agree. This is not an entry someone could just pick up and read. It's not the most violent or the wildest or the most memorable. But it is one that really makes us sit and reflect. Not just on the characters and the horrors they've been through, but in some way the pain we've all been through in our own personal hells. That's a pretty amazing thing to pull off in a sci-fi, action, horror book and it deserves that credit.
I cannot wait for the next entry, and I have all the faith in the world that Maberry is just going to keep upping the stakes. But this book made me realize that he might now be settling in to rip our hearts out too. Sick as it sounds, I'm here for it. The war is the war after all.
(*I received this book as an ARC from a GoodReads giveaway I entered*)
October 12, 2023
Where to begin...500+ pages and yet it could have been 100 shorter if you take out all the same bs from every book from the beginning. Did you know ledger has three personalities because of an ex getting raped? Yes, because you've read the other 14 books in the series. Descriptions of characters this deep in a series don't need to happen, and frankly the badass Joe of the early books would think this Joe is a total pu$$y with how much of a blabbering baby he becomes over his girlfriend. We get it, you're in love but Jesus dude, be less cheesy. And yet again, another bioweapon story? Three in a row, cmon. The description of this book made me think there'd be some sort of alternate universe stuff going on and that had me excited but this? Boring. It was a set up to the next book, which frankly has a villain I could care less about. Give me something new or I'll find something else.
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