Cover Image: Savage Lies

Savage Lies

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Member Reviews

A very well written book with an interesting plot line. The book introduces us to John Savage who is an ex-soldier who sets out to find a missing girl. It definitely sets the stage for a new series and a new hero

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If you are a fan of darts, you probably know the chant 'If you love the darts, stand up'. Well, I would like to change the lyrics and sing 'If you love John Savage, stand up' and I was standing up the whole time and cheering him on!

I just love this character. He is ruthless for the baddies, has a soft spot for the victims and he is utterly likeable. He made me laugh with his sarcasm and the plans he makes are top of the bill.

And then there was Jeff Perkins. He made me smile too. He is great.

In the beginning of the book, I did not quite know which the direction the author was going to take me, but boy oh boy, it was soooo good and action packed just the way I like it. 

John Savage certainly has won a place in my heart. I took me a while before I could find the time to read this first book, but I would like to shout from the rooftops how amazing it is. Giving less than 5 stars would be a crime.

Thank you, Peter Boland

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This is the start of a new series and introduces the reader to John Savage. John Savage is an ex-soldier and this influences his personality. He has to find a missing girl, and all his skills and training help him in the search. This was a well written book and I can't wait to read the next one in the series.

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Peter Boland, married to successful thriller writer Shalini, has expertly crafted the first book in the John Savage series, although I feel as though the prequel entitled Savage is the best introduction to the character and explains how he got to where he currently is, as I often felt that I was missing some vital background on him throughout this. I had absolutely no idea what to expect with Savage Lies. Couple this with the barely there synopsis, and you've got yourself a "take a chance on me" novel. Boy, am I glad I took that chance! It is extremely difficult to stand out in the crowded thriller market, but Boland manages to do so with aplomb, thanks in part to the sarcasm and wit that is interspersed throughout the story.

John Savage is a former SAS-soldier and like many members of the forces, he is suffering from mental health issues, hearing voices that tell him to do things he would rather not do. Boland has created a likeable, humorous and relatable character, who is ultimately flawed. He's smart, capable and knows exactly what he's doing when it comes to investigating a missing girl. There is action, suspense and mystery aplenty, and you can tell that the author has carried out meticulous research to make it as authentic and close to reality as possible. With a multitude of twists and turns, lots of banter and writing that draws you into the tale immediately, I thoroughly enjoyed this. Well written, with lots of hairy moments, the end of the novel lays the foundations for the follow-up. This promises to be a fantastic series, so I look forward to the next book.

Many thanks to Adrenalin Books for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

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I would like to thank Netgalley and Adrenalin Books for this partnership.

I was immediately attracted to the blanket: you see a man from behind walking in the fog.

There is John Savage who hears only one voice in his head, a miracle given the number of people he has killed for his country. But everything will change when a girl disappears, everyone will think of a serial killer except John will think of the worst....

A thriller read in one go so much I hooked" on the character of John and the story so captivating and full of suspense and twists and turns. Looking forward to reading on.

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Fantastic!! Absolutely brilliant writing, great protagonist and a thrilling plot. Can not wait for more in this series.

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SAVAGE LIES was a different kind of action book than I have read before as it had light twisted, sarcastic humor throughout the book, (which I love). The main character Savage is very likeable, he is tough, but tender. A man battling voices in his head throughout the story which is fun to read the banter going back and forth. The storyline was not too complex, so I found it easy to follow and interesting and entertaining up till the last few chapters and I started to feel bored. Other than that part I was impressed with the book. I kept thinking this is a great thriller to read for those who need a break from the darkness that most thrillers bring.

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This isn't my usual genre but I decided to step outside of my comfort zone and give it a try. I am really happy that I did because I did enjoy this book as it was very exciting, very funny and sometimes a little over the top. This book was very well written and there were a lot of good strong characters that I really liked. I look forward to more of this author's books.

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I’d recommend reading the prequel Savage before reading Savage
Lies to gain a better understanding of who John Savage is. I personally think the first 9 chapters of Savage Lies should have been included in the prequel to assist with the transitional changes in John’s career move.

When a trained killer retires from the SAS he sets out for a life as a civilian. He’s retired, yet still capable of confronting dangerous men. John’s skills get put to use by bringing down dangerous men.
I wasn’t expecting John’s character to quit his job and become a retired civilian. Even as a civilian John’s life is anything but dull. However, even with his expertise and knowledge in the SAS I didn’t find this to be the fast paced story as indicated in the description. I never felt myself get immersed in the story. I wasn’t motivated to read each chapter, but I was determined to finish it. Some of the chapters ended abruptly not transitioning well into the next chapter.

I suppose my definition for highly entertaining varies from most other readers. There was action, but it wasn’t action packed nor was it fast paced. I found one scene to stretch on for far too long. This story went in a completely different direction than I expected: a political one.

On a positive note, Mr. Boland impressed me with his hacker knowledge. He is a meticulous writer making sure to note every detail. The writing was a bit repetitive in some areas. The process for obtaining information was lengthy. I appreciated all the effort put into researching SAS training it was quite extensive.

I liked John Savage’s character he had a sarcastic personality that won me over. His skills were exceptional. He was good at casing out a scene and reading people. He was a well rounded character who fit the role as an SAS agent. He was a clever negotiator with a sharp attitude.

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Savage Lies was not my usually pick when grabbing a new book. But the cover did it for me. I was immediately intrigued just from that. Man, was it a great book, it had suspense, mystery, and twisted humor in it to keep me engaged. The story was not lacking in action department that’s for sure. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book not able to turn the pages fast enough. I love how the author brought everything together. I loved Savage, although twisted as he is I would have sat down and had a beer with him. I can see this being a movie soon. When’s book two!?

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