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Red Mist
Hiding out in a small village in France, ex-Special Forces veteran turned vigilante Mallory is trying to keep out of trouble, aware that there is a darkness within him that seeks out trouble - that enjoys it.
But one night in a bar he meets an old man afraid for his granddaughter, worried about the young man with whom she's become involved.
Unable to resist the pull of action, and of helping a family in need, Mallory is quickly drawn into a turf war that it will take all his special skills to survive.
But one night in a bar he meets an old man afraid for his granddaughter, worried about the young man with whom she's become involved.
Unable to resist the pull of action, and of helping a family in need, Mallory is quickly drawn into a turf war that it will take all his special skills to survive.
442 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 24, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
February 18, 2023
The book starts with ‘Mallory is back” although I haven’t met him before. Yes, I have done it again and jumped into a series – the good thing is we are only at the second book.
A brief overview of the plot.
Red Mist is a story that takes us to different locations in France and Switzerland drawing Mallory away from his more relaxed life back into crime and corruption and the hunt for the people threatening the granddaughter of a dear friend.
This lone wolf dusts down his ex-military and combat skills and gets embroiled in some very dangerous encounters with people at the heart of organised crime. With no shortage of explosive scenes and corrupt criminals, the reader is treated with an action packed story that is sure to satisfy many crime readers.
So what made the 'red mist' descend in me?
🔻 Mallory is an ex-veteran who has moved to the south of France for a quieter life, but he is a vigilante, and he is trying to stay out of trouble, but he is a vigilante. You get the rub. If you want to stay out of trouble open a flower shop!!! I’d rather read something new than the retired crime fighter who can't resist getting involved in the very thing he has tried to move away from - crime.
🔻 I love the suspense of thrillers, especially those that keep me at the edge of my seat or have me trying to get to the end quickly only to regret finishing because I loved it so much. Well unfortunately I did not have those feelings for this book. I wasn’t gripped mainly because of the writing.
🔻 As for the writing style – well I felt the dialogue was clunky, lacked fluidity and read like some bad acting scenes with many disjointed short sentences. Then the 'red mist' did descend!!!
However, the book did have some positives.
🔺The pace was excellent and fast moving, and rather than build the tension through the words, the author built the intensity with the action scenes, the gang turf war, and deadly encounters with some twists I didn’t predict (which I noted but many others you could see coming a long way off).
🔺Much of the story felt real and genuine, nothing was far fetched.
I will apologise again to the author and readers. For years I would read little else but crime / thrillers so it is hard for many of these to stand out in terms of originality. For this reason I have scored a very good 3 stars. However, if you haven’t reached that point of seeing different versions of this kind of story so many times before, then this is a very good choice because of its pace and is a very credible action packed story.
A brief overview of the plot.
Red Mist is a story that takes us to different locations in France and Switzerland drawing Mallory away from his more relaxed life back into crime and corruption and the hunt for the people threatening the granddaughter of a dear friend.
This lone wolf dusts down his ex-military and combat skills and gets embroiled in some very dangerous encounters with people at the heart of organised crime. With no shortage of explosive scenes and corrupt criminals, the reader is treated with an action packed story that is sure to satisfy many crime readers.
So what made the 'red mist' descend in me?
🔻 Mallory is an ex-veteran who has moved to the south of France for a quieter life, but he is a vigilante, and he is trying to stay out of trouble, but he is a vigilante. You get the rub. If you want to stay out of trouble open a flower shop!!! I’d rather read something new than the retired crime fighter who can't resist getting involved in the very thing he has tried to move away from - crime.
🔻 I love the suspense of thrillers, especially those that keep me at the edge of my seat or have me trying to get to the end quickly only to regret finishing because I loved it so much. Well unfortunately I did not have those feelings for this book. I wasn’t gripped mainly because of the writing.
🔻 As for the writing style – well I felt the dialogue was clunky, lacked fluidity and read like some bad acting scenes with many disjointed short sentences. Then the 'red mist' did descend!!!
However, the book did have some positives.
🔺The pace was excellent and fast moving, and rather than build the tension through the words, the author built the intensity with the action scenes, the gang turf war, and deadly encounters with some twists I didn’t predict (which I noted but many others you could see coming a long way off).
🔺Much of the story felt real and genuine, nothing was far fetched.
I will apologise again to the author and readers. For years I would read little else but crime / thrillers so it is hard for many of these to stand out in terms of originality. For this reason I have scored a very good 3 stars. However, if you haven’t reached that point of seeing different versions of this kind of story so many times before, then this is a very good choice because of its pace and is a very credible action packed story.
November 10, 2022
Mallory #2
This all action thriller starts with a deadly ‘game’ featuring Nicolas Devereaux in Switzerland and then switches to a more tranquil setting in Normandy. Unless that is, Mallory is about and that being the case trouble seems to effortlessly find him. His encounter with local ‘voyou’ does lead him to Serge, an elderly authoritative gentleman. A conversation ensues accompanied by some tasty local vin rouge and it transpires that Serge has concerns about his granddaughter Océane who he hasn’t heard from for some weeks. Océane is linked in some potentially dangerous way to Nicolas. Mallory off, can’t resist the temptation to know and sets of to Paris to see if he can track her down and check she is safe. Inevitably, trouble finds him not only in Paris but also in Marseille and Switzerland in this never a dull moment thriller.
First of all, Mallory. Ant Middleton has certainly created an intriguing lone wolf and his own special forces background gives his character authenticity. He’s audacious, brave, rarely steps down, he’s foolhardy but his intentions are good even if it frequently has a violent outcome. I really like Océane too, she’s strong and plucky and it would be great if she features again.
The plot is an intriguing, exciting puzzle, it’s told at a brisk pace and it’s always in flux so it keeps you gripped to the pages. Mallory encounters wealthy powerful people in this instalment and they have connections to organised crime. Mallory’s interference with the nefarious plans afoot make him about as welcome as Typhoid Mary and he feels the ‘warmth (not) of their embrace’!! It’s full of tension and suspense and takes us in a violent and adrenaline fuelled ride which builds exponentially to a dramatic end. Yes it’s OTT and Mallory is clearly made of titanium but it’s highly entertaining and I definitely enjoy it. It’s a very visual thriller and would make as entertaining a movie as it does a book.
I’m looking forward to number three when perhaps the cliffhanger at the end of book one may resume?? Finally, it’s not at all necessary to have read Book One as this can very easily be read as a stand-alone.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little Brown Book Group for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This all action thriller starts with a deadly ‘game’ featuring Nicolas Devereaux in Switzerland and then switches to a more tranquil setting in Normandy. Unless that is, Mallory is about and that being the case trouble seems to effortlessly find him. His encounter with local ‘voyou’ does lead him to Serge, an elderly authoritative gentleman. A conversation ensues accompanied by some tasty local vin rouge and it transpires that Serge has concerns about his granddaughter Océane who he hasn’t heard from for some weeks. Océane is linked in some potentially dangerous way to Nicolas. Mallory off, can’t resist the temptation to know and sets of to Paris to see if he can track her down and check she is safe. Inevitably, trouble finds him not only in Paris but also in Marseille and Switzerland in this never a dull moment thriller.
First of all, Mallory. Ant Middleton has certainly created an intriguing lone wolf and his own special forces background gives his character authenticity. He’s audacious, brave, rarely steps down, he’s foolhardy but his intentions are good even if it frequently has a violent outcome. I really like Océane too, she’s strong and plucky and it would be great if she features again.
The plot is an intriguing, exciting puzzle, it’s told at a brisk pace and it’s always in flux so it keeps you gripped to the pages. Mallory encounters wealthy powerful people in this instalment and they have connections to organised crime. Mallory’s interference with the nefarious plans afoot make him about as welcome as Typhoid Mary and he feels the ‘warmth (not) of their embrace’!! It’s full of tension and suspense and takes us in a violent and adrenaline fuelled ride which builds exponentially to a dramatic end. Yes it’s OTT and Mallory is clearly made of titanium but it’s highly entertaining and I definitely enjoy it. It’s a very visual thriller and would make as entertaining a movie as it does a book.
I’m looking forward to number three when perhaps the cliffhanger at the end of book one may resume?? Finally, it’s not at all necessary to have read Book One as this can very easily be read as a stand-alone.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little Brown Book Group for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 19, 2023
You can read the books about Mallory in any order but this is actually the second adsventure with him so wonderfully well written by Ant Middleton. He tries to stay out of trouble but as fans of thrillers now that seldom works. I found the first book by accident on the bookfair in Gothenbu8rg last year and it was good enough that I wanted more. I haven't yet tried his non fiction works but I will get round to it sometime. I really recommend this series.
November 7, 2022
If you enjoy a fast-paced rollicking ride with a quick-thinking hero, capable of climbing a mountain, shooting like a swat member, fighting like a combat specialist, who inserts himself into dangerous situations, this is for you. Mallory just can't help himself. If there's any chance of shooting, fighting, action and the like you can bank on him being in the center.
This somewhat farfetched story plays out in France and Switzerland where our hero stops a hit, prevents gang warfare and rescues a damsel who pretty much holds her own. 4 stars.
This somewhat farfetched story plays out in France and Switzerland where our hero stops a hit, prevents gang warfare and rescues a damsel who pretty much holds her own. 4 stars.
September 28, 2022
Its no surprise given the authors background that this book has plenty of action, plenty of drama and leaves a pile of dead bodies in its wake. What is surprising is its leading man, Mallory. He's a great character and someone I want to know more about.
Mallory is pretty handy when it comes to looking after himself and he does that quite a lot in this fast paced, action packed thriller. An interesting plot set against a scenic backdrop thats easily to visualise and immerserse yourself in. The tension builds well, the sense of atmosphere is good and the conclusion worth waiting for.
My only disappointment was that the cliffhanger at the end of the first book wasn't re-visited - maybe next time? I'll have to read it to find out.
My thanks to Little, Brown Book Group and NetGalley for the advance copy for review purposes, I was under no obligation and all opinions expressed are my own.
Mallory is pretty handy when it comes to looking after himself and he does that quite a lot in this fast paced, action packed thriller. An interesting plot set against a scenic backdrop thats easily to visualise and immerserse yourself in. The tension builds well, the sense of atmosphere is good and the conclusion worth waiting for.
My only disappointment was that the cliffhanger at the end of the first book wasn't re-visited - maybe next time? I'll have to read it to find out.
My thanks to Little, Brown Book Group and NetGalley for the advance copy for review purposes, I was under no obligation and all opinions expressed are my own.
June 15, 2023
A high octane action adventure following vigilante hero Mallory, an ex veteran hoping to find a quieter life in the South of France. Mallory is an expert fighter with a soft spot for civilians in trouble. So, of course, Mallory must get involved when tasked to find the granddaughter of an elderly French veteran. Her boyfriend has gotten involved in a messy turf war, and so the action is unleashed, and the body count escalates, stretching across France and into Geneva. This is a fairly typical action adventure style novel, with no big surprises, but the fight scene and action are frequent and so well executed. This is the perfect read for fans of Scott Mariani's Ben Hope, Lee Child's Jack Reacher and Michael Connelly's Harry Bosch - a capable vigilante hero with a big heart who cares about civilians and is a lean mean fighter. #redmist #antmiddleton #thepigeonholehq #netgalley
October 21, 2022
Book two in the series featuring ex Special Forces veteran Mallory. This time he finds himself in Normandy when after, a short confrontation with some local thugs, he is asked to trace Océane, the granddaughter of a former Foreign Legionnaire. This takes him from Paris to Marseille and then on to Geneva. Not unexpectedly this is full of action and more than a smattering of dead bodies but no gratuitously graphic violence. Well written and it’s quite clear the author is writing from personal knowledge which makes the events that much more realistic.
Briefly, Océane disappeared on a trip to Paris to meet her boyfriend and after finding her Mallory has to keep her safe as they stumble into the middle of a turf war between two gangs, all instigated by a ruthless killer based in Switzerland.
This is quite a hard hitting thriller and one that kept me interested from start to finish. I’m starting to love Mallory, Britain’s answer to Jack Reacher with attitude! A great story and I loved the descriptions of Paris and Marseille. Fast paced action thriller with an exciting ending. I’ll definitely be looking out for book 3.
Briefly, Océane disappeared on a trip to Paris to meet her boyfriend and after finding her Mallory has to keep her safe as they stumble into the middle of a turf war between two gangs, all instigated by a ruthless killer based in Switzerland.
This is quite a hard hitting thriller and one that kept me interested from start to finish. I’m starting to love Mallory, Britain’s answer to Jack Reacher with attitude! A great story and I loved the descriptions of Paris and Marseille. Fast paced action thriller with an exciting ending. I’ll definitely be looking out for book 3.
November 13, 2022
Sometimes I just want a good old fashioned action thriller to read, one that is going to keep me entertained from start to finish. If it's got a great protagonist, all the better, and with the Mallory series by Ant Middleton, I get all of that and more. Mallory is a fabulous character, unapologetically content to be in the midst of the action, his motives for getting involved may not be entirely altruistic - at the end of the day he actively seeks the conflict and loves the thrill of a hunt - but he always acts on the side of right, and his moral code is strong, even if his actions don't always appear to match. Mallory is an all action hero, with the skills of a true hunter but a heart of gold. Just hope you never get on his bad side ...
This time around we join Mallory as he is working as a labourer in France. Fortune brings him together with one of the town's residents, an old gentleman by the name of Serge, who tells Mallory of his fears for his granddaughter, Océane, who he has lost touch with following a heated argument. Being a sentimental sort, Mallory takes it upon himself to head to Paris and seek out Océane to try and convince her to get back in touch with her grandfather. Now this would not be a very good action thriller if Mallory was just travelling around France acting as peacemaker between the generations and it's not long before we see just how much trouble Océane is in. Although he has no real stake in this particular game, Mallory is soon caught in the thick of the action with a bit of a personal score to settle.
I really enjoyed this book. A mixture of organised crime, action and mystery, you get a real flavour of just where the story is going right from the off, with the adrenaline pulsing from the very first pages. It's a pacy read with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages, but some quieter moments too, providing a little respite for readers and allowing us time to think about what has happened. We get to see Mallory using all of his skills, an air of authenticity brought to bear on all of them by the author's own experience. Yes, he does sometimes edge towards the very cusp of probability, waging a one man war against some very skilled and deadly mercenaries, but the enjoyment of the story, and of Mallory as a character, meant that I was more than willing to go along with it.
I really enjoyed Océane as a character too. There is a real feistiness to her, a fighting spirit that doesn't seem to be crushed no matter how much danger she is in. The author gets the balance just right, allowing Mallory to take the lead where is it clear his skills are required, but not allowing Océane to simply become window dressing. She may not have the might or the skills of Mallory, but she is his match intellectually and attitudinally, and she was a fun character to get to know. As her story is very heavily tied to Mallory's quest, this is a key factor, and as a reader, it was as important that I was invested in her fate every bit as much as it was that of Mallory.
The fight scenes in this book range from the very one-sided moments, where Mallowry proves that even two are no match for one when that one has special forces, training, to those where Mallory is really up against it and it looks as though his fate may well be sealed. It's fair to say that the real driving force behind what happens in this book is pound for pound, and skill for skill, Mallory's equal, and it leads to a very high stakes, high tension thriller of a climax to the whole affair. The hunter becomes the hunted, and believe me that plays both ways. Just who wins out, and how, you will need to read to discover, but it really did satisfy.
I'm loving the development of this series, and of learning more about Mallory. For me, he's a refreshing character, one who lives for conflict and loves the thrill of the chase more than anything. I can't wait to see where Ant Middleton, and Mallory, lead us next.
This time around we join Mallory as he is working as a labourer in France. Fortune brings him together with one of the town's residents, an old gentleman by the name of Serge, who tells Mallory of his fears for his granddaughter, Océane, who he has lost touch with following a heated argument. Being a sentimental sort, Mallory takes it upon himself to head to Paris and seek out Océane to try and convince her to get back in touch with her grandfather. Now this would not be a very good action thriller if Mallory was just travelling around France acting as peacemaker between the generations and it's not long before we see just how much trouble Océane is in. Although he has no real stake in this particular game, Mallory is soon caught in the thick of the action with a bit of a personal score to settle.
I really enjoyed this book. A mixture of organised crime, action and mystery, you get a real flavour of just where the story is going right from the off, with the adrenaline pulsing from the very first pages. It's a pacy read with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages, but some quieter moments too, providing a little respite for readers and allowing us time to think about what has happened. We get to see Mallory using all of his skills, an air of authenticity brought to bear on all of them by the author's own experience. Yes, he does sometimes edge towards the very cusp of probability, waging a one man war against some very skilled and deadly mercenaries, but the enjoyment of the story, and of Mallory as a character, meant that I was more than willing to go along with it.
I really enjoyed Océane as a character too. There is a real feistiness to her, a fighting spirit that doesn't seem to be crushed no matter how much danger she is in. The author gets the balance just right, allowing Mallory to take the lead where is it clear his skills are required, but not allowing Océane to simply become window dressing. She may not have the might or the skills of Mallory, but she is his match intellectually and attitudinally, and she was a fun character to get to know. As her story is very heavily tied to Mallory's quest, this is a key factor, and as a reader, it was as important that I was invested in her fate every bit as much as it was that of Mallory.
The fight scenes in this book range from the very one-sided moments, where Mallowry proves that even two are no match for one when that one has special forces, training, to those where Mallory is really up against it and it looks as though his fate may well be sealed. It's fair to say that the real driving force behind what happens in this book is pound for pound, and skill for skill, Mallory's equal, and it leads to a very high stakes, high tension thriller of a climax to the whole affair. The hunter becomes the hunted, and believe me that plays both ways. Just who wins out, and how, you will need to read to discover, but it really did satisfy.
I'm loving the development of this series, and of learning more about Mallory. For me, he's a refreshing character, one who lives for conflict and loves the thrill of the chase more than anything. I can't wait to see where Ant Middleton, and Mallory, lead us next.
November 7, 2022
Red Mist Ant Middleton
4 stars
A high action adventure
I have not read the first book in this series but this story is fine as a stand-alone.
Mallory, fresh from the events of the first book, is recuperating in the small village on St Jean-des-Pertes in Normandy but is beginning to feel on edge and missing any action. Therefore when he becomes involved in a chat with Serge, an 84 year old, in the local pub and discovers that his granddaughter, Oceane has been dating an unsavoury boyfriend, all his instincts tell him to get involved.
He finds Oceane in Paris but she has split up from her boyfriend, Nicolas Devereaux. However when a Serbian with a knife attempts to kill both Oceane and Mallory he is determined to find out what has happened. Nicolas has been employed to kill the chief of Le Mileu, a gang based in Paris and it is assumed that this has been set up by the chief of the Marseille milieu but is this too obvious?
The action jumps around between Paris and Marseille and Mallory gets very involved. His fighting instincts are always near the surface and often the red mist of the title decends. The action is very believable and it is obvious that this book has been written by someone who has had a lot of experience in action. I also enjoyed the fact that the book was not cluttered up by too many characters and was written in a very readable style.
According to the author Mallory will be back and I will also be back to read the next instalment
Karen Deborah
Reviewer for Net galley
November 8, 2022
This is the second book featuring ex special forces veteran Mallory. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book and looked forward to this. The action is set in Europe this time, with France as it’s main setting. I enjoyed visiting places I know and this added a lot to my overall enjoyment of the book.
After a short confrontation with some local crooks, Mallory is asked to trace a woman by the name of Océane, the granddaughter of an ex Foreign Legionnaire. Mallory enjoys such a task and it’s not long before the bodies start mounting up along the way from Paris to Marseille and on to Geneva. The descriptions of the fights seem to be to be done incredibly well. Perhaps this is because Ant Middleton is describing things from his own perspective.
Once Mallory has found Océan, he keeps her safe by keeping her near him. She is not unhappy with this arrangement. Soon they find themselves in the middle of a turf war and things get personal and dangerous. However, Mallory works out that there is someone else involved, someone who is keeping out of things but pulling everyone’s strings. He is indeed a ruthless killer who is based in Geneva.
This is without doubt a hard hitting thriller. The body count quickly rises into double figures but it is never gratuitously detailed. Mallory is a soft hearted lethal killer and he should be taken seriously. I found it easy to like him. The action is non stop from beginning to end and I can’t wait for his next adventure. If this ever gets on to the small screen, please, please don’t suggest Tom Cruise for the role!
After a short confrontation with some local crooks, Mallory is asked to trace a woman by the name of Océane, the granddaughter of an ex Foreign Legionnaire. Mallory enjoys such a task and it’s not long before the bodies start mounting up along the way from Paris to Marseille and on to Geneva. The descriptions of the fights seem to be to be done incredibly well. Perhaps this is because Ant Middleton is describing things from his own perspective.
Once Mallory has found Océan, he keeps her safe by keeping her near him. She is not unhappy with this arrangement. Soon they find themselves in the middle of a turf war and things get personal and dangerous. However, Mallory works out that there is someone else involved, someone who is keeping out of things but pulling everyone’s strings. He is indeed a ruthless killer who is based in Geneva.
This is without doubt a hard hitting thriller. The body count quickly rises into double figures but it is never gratuitously detailed. Mallory is a soft hearted lethal killer and he should be taken seriously. I found it easy to like him. The action is non stop from beginning to end and I can’t wait for his next adventure. If this ever gets on to the small screen, please, please don’t suggest Tom Cruise for the role!
December 9, 2022
Move over Jack Reacher, make way for Mallory!!!!
Is Mallory "The British Reacher" or is Reacher the "American Mallory" ???
This series redefines the point of reference for action fiction, Ant Middleton is simply phenomenal.
“Red Mist” is the second of the Mallory series and whilst you don't need to have read the first book “Cold Justice”, you are so missing out if you don’t read it as it sets nicely Mallory’s past which goes a long way to explain this complicated character’s present. I do not feel the need to rehash the plot line for this book as the synopsis does it really well, instead here are my favourite highlights:
The story is easily followed and the plotline not too complex
The action parts are naturally believable. At no point you feel the need to eye roll as if it can be done, Ant Middleton is well placed to know it!
The background location set in France is spot on. Originating from France myself, I can vouch for its authenticity
The female part Oceane is not some useless woman in distress but pictured with much depth.
In a word (or two), phenomenal book! Can’t wait for the next book of the series….
Is Mallory "The British Reacher" or is Reacher the "American Mallory" ???
This series redefines the point of reference for action fiction, Ant Middleton is simply phenomenal.
“Red Mist” is the second of the Mallory series and whilst you don't need to have read the first book “Cold Justice”, you are so missing out if you don’t read it as it sets nicely Mallory’s past which goes a long way to explain this complicated character’s present. I do not feel the need to rehash the plot line for this book as the synopsis does it really well, instead here are my favourite highlights:
The story is easily followed and the plotline not too complex
The action parts are naturally believable. At no point you feel the need to eye roll as if it can be done, Ant Middleton is well placed to know it!
The background location set in France is spot on. Originating from France myself, I can vouch for its authenticity
The female part Oceane is not some useless woman in distress but pictured with much depth.
In a word (or two), phenomenal book! Can’t wait for the next book of the series….
February 4, 2023
This was a brilliant read. It wasn't exactly what I expected. As I thought, Ant would be more of a high action guns shouting type of writer. This was my first time reading one of his fiction stories. I still really enjoyed reading this book. It was definitely difficult to put down. I had to finish reading it in one day. Although this is the second book in the series, and I haven't read the first book. It worked well as a standalone. I really connected with the storyline. It was certainly exciting and thrilling with some great edge of your seat action moments. The characters were brilliant, well developed, realistic, and very easy to connect with. Having read most of Ant's non-fiction books, I could see the essence of his life creeping into this story. Especially the title. I definitely recommend reading this book if you love reading thrillers surrounding illegal activity and gang warfare.
So much praise goes out to the author and publishers for creating such a wonderful story. I can't wait to read more books from this series.
So much praise goes out to the author and publishers for creating such a wonderful story. I can't wait to read more books from this series.
March 19, 2023
An unapologetic, action festival featuring the latest hero on the block, Mallory.
The second book in Ant Middleton’s fictional series, following former Special Forces operator Mallory as he travels the globe, finding and causing trouble.
This particular outing starts in France, with Mallory facing two thugs out for violence. Dealt with by a firm word or two, we swiftly move on to an action packed travel across France as Mallory hunts for answers.
Immersed in the world of organised crime, we cross the country in a whirlwind of fast paced events that truly keen you gripped.
The character development has really come along and Mallory is becoming one of those hero’s that you will gladly revisit.
The other characters featured are also cleverly drawn and you can tell that Middleton has enjoyed the writing of this book.
With the cliff hanger that was present in the closing pages of the first, entirely missing from this outing, I do wonder where we will go from here and I for one cannot wait for the next.
Praise indeed. Five out of five.
The second book in Ant Middleton’s fictional series, following former Special Forces operator Mallory as he travels the globe, finding and causing trouble.
This particular outing starts in France, with Mallory facing two thugs out for violence. Dealt with by a firm word or two, we swiftly move on to an action packed travel across France as Mallory hunts for answers.
Immersed in the world of organised crime, we cross the country in a whirlwind of fast paced events that truly keen you gripped.
The character development has really come along and Mallory is becoming one of those hero’s that you will gladly revisit.
The other characters featured are also cleverly drawn and you can tell that Middleton has enjoyed the writing of this book.
With the cliff hanger that was present in the closing pages of the first, entirely missing from this outing, I do wonder where we will go from here and I for one cannot wait for the next.
Praise indeed. Five out of five.
December 1, 2022
Well, who doesn't imagine the author Ant as Mallory when reading the book?!
I have thoroughly enjoyed this second book featuring the ex special forces veteran Mallory; I am yet to read the first in this series but it's on my list and on order from my local library.
The book is full of action, thrills and an unhealthy but necessary body count. Mallory has a spat with some locals in a small French village but is aided by the words of an elderly resident, himself an ex forces vet too but for the French legionnaires. They bond over shared stories and experiences and it's then that .Mallory is asked to find his missing granddaughter Oceane. Mallory takes on the challenge but is faced with some extremely ruthless men, all in the employ of one person, who wants to exact maximum revenge against a rival gang.
But they hadn't reckoned with Mallory! This a fast paced, graphic thriller and as Isai at the start, I just kept imagining Ant as Mallory
A great thriller from Ant Middleton; I have also enjoyed his motivational books and seen his talks, a very inspirational guy.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this second book featuring the ex special forces veteran Mallory; I am yet to read the first in this series but it's on my list and on order from my local library.
The book is full of action, thrills and an unhealthy but necessary body count. Mallory has a spat with some locals in a small French village but is aided by the words of an elderly resident, himself an ex forces vet too but for the French legionnaires. They bond over shared stories and experiences and it's then that .Mallory is asked to find his missing granddaughter Oceane. Mallory takes on the challenge but is faced with some extremely ruthless men, all in the employ of one person, who wants to exact maximum revenge against a rival gang.
But they hadn't reckoned with Mallory! This a fast paced, graphic thriller and as Isai at the start, I just kept imagining Ant as Mallory
A great thriller from Ant Middleton; I have also enjoyed his motivational books and seen his talks, a very inspirational guy.
November 7, 2022
A good solid 4 star read.
If you like a good, fast-paced, action-packed thriller then this could be for you.
This is the second of Ant Middleton's "Mallory" series and I was looking forward to this after enjoying the first ("Cold Justice"), it did not disappoint.
You can tell Ant has used his previous experiences for the action scenes. Yes dramatic licence got a battering but this is expected from books in this genre. The troubled (clearly with PTSD) Mallory (still don't know his first name) was also probably written with experience from his own life or those of his comrades, I would say could give Reacher a run for his money.
This was a gripping read, I was highly invested in the outcome and I am looking forward to book three.
With thanks to the author and the Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read.
If you like a good, fast-paced, action-packed thriller then this could be for you.
This is the second of Ant Middleton's "Mallory" series and I was looking forward to this after enjoying the first ("Cold Justice"), it did not disappoint.
You can tell Ant has used his previous experiences for the action scenes. Yes dramatic licence got a battering but this is expected from books in this genre. The troubled (clearly with PTSD) Mallory (still don't know his first name) was also probably written with experience from his own life or those of his comrades, I would say could give Reacher a run for his money.
This was a gripping read, I was highly invested in the outcome and I am looking forward to book three.
With thanks to the author and the Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read.
November 8, 2022
Red Mist by Ant Middleton is a book easily slipped into, Mallory the ex special forces protagonist entertains us with such charm and fearlessness. Ant an Produces such an effortless transition from the first book, Cold Justice, and takes us on an unforgettable journey, this time to Europe, spending time in France. Thanks to the Pigeonhole app, I read this book on a daily basis with other readers from around the world, as in a bookclub, which is a brilliant concept.
Superb writing, great storyline, a breathtakingly fast pace with great cliffhangers. Such an exciting story following Mallory and a sidekick into some outrageously difficult and at times, unbelievable situations. Ant’s style of narrative and descriptive passages ensures we are alongside Mallory on his “quest” to keep out of trouble. He never manages this!
A breathtakingly superb read.
Superb writing, great storyline, a breathtakingly fast pace with great cliffhangers. Such an exciting story following Mallory and a sidekick into some outrageously difficult and at times, unbelievable situations. Ant’s style of narrative and descriptive passages ensures we are alongside Mallory on his “quest” to keep out of trouble. He never manages this!
A breathtakingly superb read.
December 31, 2022
I read the first of Ant Middleton's books with Pigeonhole, and signed up for this, the second in the series, as soon as I saw it available. I remember being surprised by how much I enjoyed the first Mallory book, but there wasn't much surprise this time around. Red Mist was just as good. This book sees Mallory living and working in France, and a chance meeting with an elderly man just as he's getting ready to move on gives him a purpose of where to go and something to do when he gets there. From there, events take over and things escalate.
There's no doubt there's a lot of artistic licence, and dumb luck with a lot of how the story unfolds, but it is fiction - it's not meant to be real life.
I enjoyed the action in this and would recommend it. It's also stand-alone, although we were introduced to Mallory in Cold Justice. You don't have to have read that to enjoy this.
There's no doubt there's a lot of artistic licence, and dumb luck with a lot of how the story unfolds, but it is fiction - it's not meant to be real life.
I enjoyed the action in this and would recommend it. It's also stand-alone, although we were introduced to Mallory in Cold Justice. You don't have to have read that to enjoy this.
November 25, 2022
Just brilliant!! A hugely enjoyable read!
Ex Special forces in the navy Mallory is in France, in a small village, where he has been working, laying low, but trouble still finds him. After an evening in the local bar, drinking with an elderly French veteran he leaves for Paris and then onto Marseilles where his training, instinct and skills are needed, and where the red mist is never too far.
The awareness, expertise, and professionalism is all there and more. Hugely entertaining, interesting and addictive reading! I need to read the last book on Mallory now!
The writing flows, the characters believable, the descriptions weave a masterful visual world. A great creative narrative.
Thank you NetGalley for the early read, much appreciated and enjoyed!!
Ex Special forces in the navy Mallory is in France, in a small village, where he has been working, laying low, but trouble still finds him. After an evening in the local bar, drinking with an elderly French veteran he leaves for Paris and then onto Marseilles where his training, instinct and skills are needed, and where the red mist is never too far.
The awareness, expertise, and professionalism is all there and more. Hugely entertaining, interesting and addictive reading! I need to read the last book on Mallory now!
The writing flows, the characters believable, the descriptions weave a masterful visual world. A great creative narrative.
Thank you NetGalley for the early read, much appreciated and enjoyed!!
December 12, 2022
After reading Ant Middleton's first book, I was eagerly awaiting, and in fact, pre-ordered Red Mist. Unfortunately, I found the story rather hard going and only really puzzled out and made sense of it after getting about halfway through. Even after that, the story seem to plod along and only slowly picking up speed from there. There isn't a lot of action as it's attempting to build intrigue intention, but for me all this really did was give me frustration has nothing much seem to be happening Where I felt heavily compelled to jump ahead, here and there.
Come on Ant, you've proved you can do much better than this!
Come on Ant, you've proved you can do much better than this!
November 7, 2022
A thoroughly enjoyable book. Mallory is a great, larger-than-life character. You know everything is going to turn out for the best, but that doesn't take away from the enjoyment. Yes, the plot may be a little far-fetched, but that's almost expected with this genre. The saving grace is that the book is well-written, full of action and has engaging characters (and villains!) If I hadn't been reading courtesy of the Pigeonhole (thanks!) I'd have finished it in one sitting; thank you also to Ant Middleton for giving me the opportunity to read it.
December 9, 2022
I thought Cold Justice was brilliant, in a saturated genre I thought it was new, exciting and really well written. I wondered if Ant Middleton could replicate that and I think he’s bettered it.
I thought this book was riveting, had a great plot and some brilliant characters. I also think Middleton did well not to overstate certain elements of the plot to keep the book the right side of believable.
I for one am really looking forward to the third instalment of this series and hope it’s as good as the previous two.
I thought this book was riveting, had a great plot and some brilliant characters. I also think Middleton did well not to overstate certain elements of the plot to keep the book the right side of believable.
I for one am really looking forward to the third instalment of this series and hope it’s as good as the previous two.
June 11, 2023
Great holiday read
Fabulous story of underworld figures, an ex SF operator who wishes the ex didn't exist, a seductive French girl set over the diverse terrain and fantastic cities of Paris and marseille.
A great page turner that I found very difficult to put down. And leaves me waiting impatiently for Mallorys next adventure, set in North East Scotland and the Central belt maybe??
Fans of Bond; Bourne and 90s Schwarzenegger and Stallone will love this book. Treat yourself, you'll be glad you did.
Fabulous story of underworld figures, an ex SF operator who wishes the ex didn't exist, a seductive French girl set over the diverse terrain and fantastic cities of Paris and marseille.
A great page turner that I found very difficult to put down. And leaves me waiting impatiently for Mallorys next adventure, set in North East Scotland and the Central belt maybe??
Fans of Bond; Bourne and 90s Schwarzenegger and Stallone will love this book. Treat yourself, you'll be glad you did.
October 8, 2022
After loving Ant Middleton’s first novel I was slightly disappointed with Red Mist.. It felt a little formulaic as our hero gets himself in trouble rescuing a damsel in distress before taking down a cartel single handedly. I continue to like the character of Mallory but something in the story was missing this time, it was just a little too predictable. Thank you to Netgalley for the advance reader copy.
November 24, 2022
I was very excited to be able to catch up with Mallory again in this gripping thriller. I loved the first book so I was looking forward to this one and it did not disappoint. Action packed and fast paced. I read it via the Pigeonhole App, split over 10 days and I couldn’t wait for each one to be released. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I’d definitely want Mallory in my corner. Can’t wait for the next book now!
December 29, 2022
Red Mist is a superb sequel to Cold Justice, surpassing the standard set by the first title in the Mallory series.
Mallory's attention to detail and skills as a technician are showcased further, the ot slowly revealing more nuances of his character. Océane was a fascinating support character and I wonder if we will see her again, it is not impossible.
Well-paced plot, great action, exhilarating climax and a thoroughly enjoyable read. Highly recommend!
Mallory's attention to detail and skills as a technician are showcased further, the ot slowly revealing more nuances of his character. Océane was a fascinating support character and I wonder if we will see her again, it is not impossible.
Well-paced plot, great action, exhilarating climax and a thoroughly enjoyable read. Highly recommend!
January 10, 2023
Mallory is back. Following on from the thoroughly enjoyable Cold Justice, Ant Middleton returns with his hero and a new mission. Combining Middletown’s extensive Elite Forces background and knowledge with gripping action results in a nail-biting, engaging adventure.
Middleton continues to show his knack for writing enjoyable and unputdownable thrillers proving his debut wasn’t a one off. I’m ready for more Mallory, looking forward to the next one already.
Middleton continues to show his knack for writing enjoyable and unputdownable thrillers proving his debut wasn’t a one off. I’m ready for more Mallory, looking forward to the next one already.
March 6, 2023
This book felt a little slower to get going than the first in the series (Cold Justice), but once the pace picked up it was impossible to put down. I had hoped that Red Mist would have followed on from the cliffhanger at the end of the last book, but there was no mention of it - maybe it’ll come back if there’s a third? Overall, it was a great read, although I preferred the first book, just keeping my fingers crossed that there’s another book to come in the Mallory series!
December 23, 2022
Keep doing what your doing Ant Middleton,
Love your fiction stuff and especially your reality, mindset, mindfulness work, gives me strength and inspiration, would love to meet you in person one day🤞probably at a book signing as I love the stuff you keep turning out.
Mallory? What a solid bloke, keep the stories coming
Love your fiction stuff and especially your reality, mindset, mindfulness work, gives me strength and inspiration, would love to meet you in person one day🤞probably at a book signing as I love the stuff you keep turning out.
Mallory? What a solid bloke, keep the stories coming
August 27, 2023
Another great book from Ant Middleton- the 2nd in the series & just as good as the 1st book!
Loved it; couldn't put it down! Great characters, who felt like real people and Mallory still comes across as a really warm, friendly guy -someone who you would quite happily have as a friend.
Great book- can't wait for the 3rd in the series!
Loved it; couldn't put it down! Great characters, who felt like real people and Mallory still comes across as a really warm, friendly guy -someone who you would quite happily have as a friend.
Great book- can't wait for the 3rd in the series!
July 21, 2024
What a brilliant 2nd installment of the legend….the man MALLORY!
What a sweetheart underneath the tough military exterior, finding ways to control his rage by helping good samaritans along the way.
I love the fight scene descriptions, especially the one on the train.
I can’t wait for the next one!
I know the Author is Ant Middleton and I just pictured the character as him!
What a sweetheart underneath the tough military exterior, finding ways to control his rage by helping good samaritans along the way.
I love the fight scene descriptions, especially the one on the train.
I can’t wait for the next one!
I know the Author is Ant Middleton and I just pictured the character as him!
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