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Michael Sykora #1
No Justice
How far would you go to right a wrong?
For Michael Sykora, killing started as blind rage. Then it became something he's good at. To most of those who know him, Michael is a software designer, a smart but average guy with a workaholic nature. To a chosen few, Michael is a part-time hit man whose specialty is eliminating hard-core criminals. Michael has managed to keep his two personas separate. Until now.
When Nicki, a close friend, gets into trouble, Michael steps in to help. Having lost his fiance to a brutal crime, Michael will do whatever necessary to keep from losing another woman in his life
For Michael Sykora, killing started as blind rage. Then it became something he's good at. To most of those who know him, Michael is a software designer, a smart but average guy with a workaholic nature. To a chosen few, Michael is a part-time hit man whose specialty is eliminating hard-core criminals. Michael has managed to keep his two personas separate. Until now.
When Nicki, a close friend, gets into trouble, Michael steps in to help. Having lost his fiance to a brutal crime, Michael will do whatever necessary to keep from losing another woman in his life
230 pages, Nook
First published June 13, 2009
59 people are currently reading
362 people want to read
About the author
Darcia Helle
30 books737 followersDusty corners of the mind intrigue me.
I'm an armchair explorer; book in one hand, mug of tea in the other.
Connect on Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/DarciaHelle
I'm an armchair explorer; book in one hand, mug of tea in the other.
Connect on Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/DarciaHelle
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 14, 2021
Omg! This was such an awesome read ..... I couldn't put it down. I'm really loving Darcia Helle's work.
October 2, 2012
Leaving Las Vegas Meets Dexter
In No Justice, Darcia Helle creates a gritty world reminiscent of the movie Leaving Las Vegas. Instead of alcoholic Nicholas Cage turning to prostitute Elizabeth Shue for solace, this time it’s hit man Michael Sykora falling for prostitute Nicki. Similar to the TV show Dexter, Michael kills bad men — like the one who murdered his wife.
From the first line…
Let him laugh. One more hour and he’d be dead.
…it’s clear a dark ride awaits. Somehow Darcia manages to show Michael’s integrity despite his sinister side vocation as hit man.
Although Michael first met Nicki when she serviced him as a prostitute, both developed genuine feelings for each other. He felt guilty for his attraction to her due to his allegiance to his dead wife, so he cut off all ties with her. But when Nicki later calls him, scared and on the run from her friend’s thuggish boyfriend, Michael can’t help but jump into the fray to help her. And when Michael goes in, he goes all in, encountering true danger from creepy Anthony Lott and his gang.
Michael’s day job is computer programming, and his office assistant Ruby is one of my favorite characters.
Ruby tapped on the side door, then, without waiting for Michael’s response, pushed it open and stepped inside. She said, “You’ve been locked up in here brooding all morning.”
Michael clicked out of the window he’d had open on his computer screen. He said, “I’m not brooding.”
“You prefer I call it pouting?”
Frowning, Michael looked up. Ruby had taken her non-nonsense stance, with both feet planted firmly about a foot apart and her hands spread out over her fleshy hips. “I do not pout,” he said.
“Really now? You look in the mirror yet today?”
“You come in here solely for the pleasure of giving me a hard time?”
“Course not,” Ruby replied. “It just comes so easy, sometimes I can’t help myself.”
“Lucky me.”
Other well-drawn supporting characters include Michael’s two friends: Ruby’s son Isaac, a police officer, and Sean, a fellow hit man who Michael originally hired to take out his wife’s killer. I love the complexity of both of these characters. Lawman Isaac just might know about Michael’s secret penchant for murder but keeps it quiet. Sean is a ruthless killer who demonstrates admirable loyalty toward Michael.
I look forward to reading Michael’s future exploits in
Beyond Salvation -- it appears Nicki will still be hanging around, worming her way into his cold, shattered heart. It’s wonderful to hear Darcia is writing book three in the series!
In No Justice, Darcia Helle creates a gritty world reminiscent of the movie Leaving Las Vegas. Instead of alcoholic Nicholas Cage turning to prostitute Elizabeth Shue for solace, this time it’s hit man Michael Sykora falling for prostitute Nicki. Similar to the TV show Dexter, Michael kills bad men — like the one who murdered his wife.
From the first line…
Let him laugh. One more hour and he’d be dead.
…it’s clear a dark ride awaits. Somehow Darcia manages to show Michael’s integrity despite his sinister side vocation as hit man.
Although Michael first met Nicki when she serviced him as a prostitute, both developed genuine feelings for each other. He felt guilty for his attraction to her due to his allegiance to his dead wife, so he cut off all ties with her. But when Nicki later calls him, scared and on the run from her friend’s thuggish boyfriend, Michael can’t help but jump into the fray to help her. And when Michael goes in, he goes all in, encountering true danger from creepy Anthony Lott and his gang.
Michael’s day job is computer programming, and his office assistant Ruby is one of my favorite characters.
Ruby tapped on the side door, then, without waiting for Michael’s response, pushed it open and stepped inside. She said, “You’ve been locked up in here brooding all morning.”
Michael clicked out of the window he’d had open on his computer screen. He said, “I’m not brooding.”
“You prefer I call it pouting?”
Frowning, Michael looked up. Ruby had taken her non-nonsense stance, with both feet planted firmly about a foot apart and her hands spread out over her fleshy hips. “I do not pout,” he said.
“Really now? You look in the mirror yet today?”
“You come in here solely for the pleasure of giving me a hard time?”
“Course not,” Ruby replied. “It just comes so easy, sometimes I can’t help myself.”
“Lucky me.”
Other well-drawn supporting characters include Michael’s two friends: Ruby’s son Isaac, a police officer, and Sean, a fellow hit man who Michael originally hired to take out his wife’s killer. I love the complexity of both of these characters. Lawman Isaac just might know about Michael’s secret penchant for murder but keeps it quiet. Sean is a ruthless killer who demonstrates admirable loyalty toward Michael.
I look forward to reading Michael’s future exploits in
Beyond Salvation -- it appears Nicki will still be hanging around, worming her way into his cold, shattered heart. It’s wonderful to hear Darcia is writing book three in the series!
March 27, 2011
Would you take justice into your own hands to protect those you love? Would you kill to save them?
In No Justice, software designer, Michael Sykora, does just that. Known only to a few, he’s also a killer for hire, a part-time hit man who takes scum off the streets. Driven by his own tragedy, Sykora steps in where the justice system fails.
The pace is quick, the characters believable. Sykora wastes no time eliminating his targets. His love for his friends and his concern for the vulnerable is clear; it explains why he does what he does, maybe even justifies it, and makes him human.
His personal relationships are engaging, more so when they overlap his night-time career. He hides the fact he’s a paid assassin from his closet friend; a cop. Despite what he does, Michael Sykora has a conscience. He won’t murder a target if there’s the possibility they might be innocent.
He’s a vigilante. Does it make him bad? As bad as his targets? Or is he doing the world a favor? You decide. Remember the title before you decide.
This is an excellent book filled with action, good dialogue, wit, and great characters. The bonus feature at the end raises the question again; the moral dilemma – how far would you go to do the right thing?
In No Justice, software designer, Michael Sykora, does just that. Known only to a few, he’s also a killer for hire, a part-time hit man who takes scum off the streets. Driven by his own tragedy, Sykora steps in where the justice system fails.
The pace is quick, the characters believable. Sykora wastes no time eliminating his targets. His love for his friends and his concern for the vulnerable is clear; it explains why he does what he does, maybe even justifies it, and makes him human.
His personal relationships are engaging, more so when they overlap his night-time career. He hides the fact he’s a paid assassin from his closet friend; a cop. Despite what he does, Michael Sykora has a conscience. He won’t murder a target if there’s the possibility they might be innocent.
He’s a vigilante. Does it make him bad? As bad as his targets? Or is he doing the world a favor? You decide. Remember the title before you decide.
This is an excellent book filled with action, good dialogue, wit, and great characters. The bonus feature at the end raises the question again; the moral dilemma – how far would you go to do the right thing?
August 30, 2020
Well done!
By day he is a computer guru, but by night Michael is a hit man. His pregnant wife was murdered a few years earlier and he hired someone to locate and do in the person who killed her. When the time came, he ended up killing the man himself and thusly started a new career. This time a woman with whom he once had an almost relationship with contacted him. She had been working at a women’s shelter and got a bit too close to one of the women there who left and returned to her battering boyfriend. Nicki wanted his help in protecting her friend. Michael agreed to help. The novel deals with his interactions with the people he came into contact with as he looks into the friend’s murder. It is graphic and, at times, brutal, but Michael always stands true to his values. It was good, fast reading. Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-galley for an honest review.
By day he is a computer guru, but by night Michael is a hit man. His pregnant wife was murdered a few years earlier and he hired someone to locate and do in the person who killed her. When the time came, he ended up killing the man himself and thusly started a new career. This time a woman with whom he once had an almost relationship with contacted him. She had been working at a women’s shelter and got a bit too close to one of the women there who left and returned to her battering boyfriend. Nicki wanted his help in protecting her friend. Michael agreed to help. The novel deals with his interactions with the people he came into contact with as he looks into the friend’s murder. It is graphic and, at times, brutal, but Michael always stands true to his values. It was good, fast reading. Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-galley for an honest review.
September 6, 2014
No Justice
Before I read this novel, featuring hit man, Michael Sykora, as the main character, I had only read a few of Darcia Helle’s short stories. I had immediately “taken to” her style of writing and imaginative storylines, but wondered how this would translate to a longer work. Well, let me say, immediately, that No Justice: A Michael Sykora Novel, the first in a series, did not disappoint in the slightest!
Michael Sykora, a software designer to most people, is in fact a hit man…..but one with a difference. He only kills very bad people! It seems just a little bit wrong to like a character that kills people, but Michael is both likeable and interesting. His path into the hit-man business was opened up when his fiancée was murdered and his mission appears to be that no really bad guy will escape justice.
This thriller is extremely well-written; Darcia Helle certainly has a wonderful style. Her characters are completely believable, well rounded and memorable. The twists and turns of the plot kept my attention the whole time I was reading - I’m looking forward to reading more Darcia Helle novels in the near future.
A thoroughly recommended read!
Before I read this novel, featuring hit man, Michael Sykora, as the main character, I had only read a few of Darcia Helle’s short stories. I had immediately “taken to” her style of writing and imaginative storylines, but wondered how this would translate to a longer work. Well, let me say, immediately, that No Justice: A Michael Sykora Novel, the first in a series, did not disappoint in the slightest!
Michael Sykora, a software designer to most people, is in fact a hit man…..but one with a difference. He only kills very bad people! It seems just a little bit wrong to like a character that kills people, but Michael is both likeable and interesting. His path into the hit-man business was opened up when his fiancée was murdered and his mission appears to be that no really bad guy will escape justice.
This thriller is extremely well-written; Darcia Helle certainly has a wonderful style. Her characters are completely believable, well rounded and memorable. The twists and turns of the plot kept my attention the whole time I was reading - I’m looking forward to reading more Darcia Helle novels in the near future.
A thoroughly recommended read!
January 25, 2017
REVIEW OF AUDIOBOOK; JANUARY 24, 2017
Narrator: Eric Medler
This was nothing like I expected it to be. Instead of a serious story with a tortured or, at least, a complex protagonist, I got saddled with a Disney version of a hitman, a vigilante with the heart of gold...accompanied by his prostitute-with-a-heart-of-gold love interest. I could not find a bookful of more cliched characters.
The plot, if there was one, is very straightforward. No thinking required. Michael accepts contract killings if the target deserves to die. That's all there is, folks. But if you're looking for a simple plotline with no twists and turns, a nice-guy hero, and one-dimensional characters and plots, this should work.
I'm more used to assassin thrillers like Mark Greaney's Gray Man series, or Tom Wood's Victor, the Assassin series - both excellent hitmen thrillers.
Narrator: Eric Medler
This was nothing like I expected it to be. Instead of a serious story with a tortured or, at least, a complex protagonist, I got saddled with a Disney version of a hitman, a vigilante with the heart of gold...accompanied by his prostitute-with-a-heart-of-gold love interest. I could not find a bookful of more cliched characters.
The plot, if there was one, is very straightforward. No thinking required. Michael accepts contract killings if the target deserves to die. That's all there is, folks. But if you're looking for a simple plotline with no twists and turns, a nice-guy hero, and one-dimensional characters and plots, this should work.
I'm more used to assassin thrillers like Mark Greaney's Gray Man series, or Tom Wood's Victor, the Assassin series - both excellent hitmen thrillers.
August 8, 2015
Imagine that a good friend of yours wrote her first novel and asked you to read it. You read it, and while it's nothing like a novel written by a professional, it's way better than what you could write. That's this book. I'm honestly shocked by the rating that this book has. I suspect that it's been swayed by friends of the author or that the premise of the novel struck a chord with women who have had a bad experience with a man.
The characters are a bit shallow and stupid, and occasionally painful. Some of the dialog is painful. Don't get me wrong, the book isn't absolutely terrible. I did have to push myself to keep going at times, but I never seriously considered abandoning it. There were even a few places where I was anxious to see what would come next. Just don't expect a four-star book, if you decide to read this.
The characters are a bit shallow and stupid, and occasionally painful. Some of the dialog is painful. Don't get me wrong, the book isn't absolutely terrible. I did have to push myself to keep going at times, but I never seriously considered abandoning it. There were even a few places where I was anxious to see what would come next. Just don't expect a four-star book, if you decide to read this.
November 2, 2017
"No variety"
I imagine the main drawback with being a hit man is the similarity of method used. The police might term this a 'signature'. Early in this book, Michael Sykora explains that he used a knife once, but found it too messy. From then on it was a bullet or two to the head.
And there you have it. The story features a series of contract killings, all using the same violent method, linked together with random conversations with friends and work colleagues. It was clear what the end game was going to be, and with these casual chats over a game of pool and a beer it took an interminable time to reach it. Nikki, girl friend has upset a villain, who wants her dead. Michael rides to the rescue. Did he win the hand of the fair maiden? You know how these series go by now... buy the next book to find out.
I imagine the main drawback with being a hit man is the similarity of method used. The police might term this a 'signature'. Early in this book, Michael Sykora explains that he used a knife once, but found it too messy. From then on it was a bullet or two to the head.
And there you have it. The story features a series of contract killings, all using the same violent method, linked together with random conversations with friends and work colleagues. It was clear what the end game was going to be, and with these casual chats over a game of pool and a beer it took an interminable time to reach it. Nikki, girl friend has upset a villain, who wants her dead. Michael rides to the rescue. Did he win the hand of the fair maiden? You know how these series go by now... buy the next book to find out.
September 27, 2009
I believe that this novel is between 4 & 5 stars so I rate it 4 1/2 stars.
Michael Sykora felt that he had lost everything when his Christina was raped and strangled. The killer was a steroid abuser with a history of sexual assaults. Michael needed closure so after his associate, Sean, found the murderer, Michael killed him and began a new career of a part time hit man persuing those who take advantage of the weaker public.
After dealing with a rapist Michael got a call from an old friend, Nicki. She was a former prostitute that Michael had a prior relationship with. Now, Nicki has gotten out of the street life and returned to school. She has received her associate degree and works in a women's shelter. One of her clients, Isabel, had been beaten by her borfriend, Antonio Lott. Nicki recommended she leave Antonio before he hurt her even worse. Antonio thought that Isabel had disclosed his cocaine dealing and child pornography distribution business to Nicki and wants to silence her.
Nicki can't go to the police because of her former occupation and because Antonio hid some cocaine in her appartment. If the police ever came there to investigate her statements, they'd find the drugs and discredit what she claimed.
Michael agrees to help Nicki but finds that Antonio has a gang which consists of two of his cousins and two others. Then he learns from his police friend that they are investigating Antonio and want to find who he deals with in the child pornography. How will Michael get to Antonio before Antonio can silence Nicki?
This is a well developed plot. Michael is a good protagonist. He has his humane features in dealing with his father's terminal illness, yet he cares for those less able to care for themselves. Nicki is also a well developed character. The author, Darcia Helle, states that one of her influences is Janet Evanovich and Nicki's character has some of the traits of an ongoing character in Evanovich's work, who was also a reformed prostitute.
Overall well done and a recommended work.
Michael Sykora felt that he had lost everything when his Christina was raped and strangled. The killer was a steroid abuser with a history of sexual assaults. Michael needed closure so after his associate, Sean, found the murderer, Michael killed him and began a new career of a part time hit man persuing those who take advantage of the weaker public.
After dealing with a rapist Michael got a call from an old friend, Nicki. She was a former prostitute that Michael had a prior relationship with. Now, Nicki has gotten out of the street life and returned to school. She has received her associate degree and works in a women's shelter. One of her clients, Isabel, had been beaten by her borfriend, Antonio Lott. Nicki recommended she leave Antonio before he hurt her even worse. Antonio thought that Isabel had disclosed his cocaine dealing and child pornography distribution business to Nicki and wants to silence her.
Nicki can't go to the police because of her former occupation and because Antonio hid some cocaine in her appartment. If the police ever came there to investigate her statements, they'd find the drugs and discredit what she claimed.
Michael agrees to help Nicki but finds that Antonio has a gang which consists of two of his cousins and two others. Then he learns from his police friend that they are investigating Antonio and want to find who he deals with in the child pornography. How will Michael get to Antonio before Antonio can silence Nicki?
This is a well developed plot. Michael is a good protagonist. He has his humane features in dealing with his father's terminal illness, yet he cares for those less able to care for themselves. Nicki is also a well developed character. The author, Darcia Helle, states that one of her influences is Janet Evanovich and Nicki's character has some of the traits of an ongoing character in Evanovich's work, who was also a reformed prostitute.
Overall well done and a recommended work.
November 18, 2013
I'm already a big fan of Darcia Helle's writing. I've read most of her stand alone novels, and short stories. I've been wanting to read this series of books for ages. I finally found a bit of time and am so glad I did! This is a fast-paced action packed thriller that is so well written you feel as if you know all the characters and that they're real people. I actually read the fourth book in the series before this one as I was lucky enough to receive a pre-publication copy, and I have to say, this character, Michael Sykora, is larger than life. He is a likeable man even though he kills for a living. He's a hitman with a conscience: he only kills bad people.
In this book he's on a mission to protect an old friend, Nicki, whose life is in danger after she becomes involved with the wrong people. Will he be able to eliminate them all before it's too late?
This book introduces the character, Michael Sykora, and we learn the reason he became a hitman. We meet his best friend, a policeman, and learn of the reason they have such a tight bond. We see what could be a developing relationship between Michael and Nicki, we find out about his history and see learn of his less than perfect childhood. His father is dying and he's forced to face demons from his past as he reconnects with him. Towards the end of the novel there is also mention of him trying to find a long-lost sister, one of the things I'm looking forward to finding out more about in book two.
There is so much to like about this book. I'd recommend it to anyone who likes good suspenseful crime fiction.
Darcia Helle's books are a joy to read, and though the subject matter is often quite dark, there is a wonderful sense of humour throughout that always brings a smile.
In this book he's on a mission to protect an old friend, Nicki, whose life is in danger after she becomes involved with the wrong people. Will he be able to eliminate them all before it's too late?
This book introduces the character, Michael Sykora, and we learn the reason he became a hitman. We meet his best friend, a policeman, and learn of the reason they have such a tight bond. We see what could be a developing relationship between Michael and Nicki, we find out about his history and see learn of his less than perfect childhood. His father is dying and he's forced to face demons from his past as he reconnects with him. Towards the end of the novel there is also mention of him trying to find a long-lost sister, one of the things I'm looking forward to finding out more about in book two.
There is so much to like about this book. I'd recommend it to anyone who likes good suspenseful crime fiction.
Darcia Helle's books are a joy to read, and though the subject matter is often quite dark, there is a wonderful sense of humour throughout that always brings a smile.
September 19, 2009
No Justice
by Darcia Helle
Review by Joe Prentis
As a longtime fan of suspense novels, I have become increasingly disappointed with this genre over the last few years. In many recent books, the authors have tried to dazzling us with the latest electronic gadgets at the expense of the story. It is refreshing to find an author like Darcia Helle who understands what it takes to hold everyone’s attention, while the plot sweeps us along to a logical and satisfying conclusion.
This book gets off to a good start almost from the first sentence, and makes you want to continue turning the pages all the way through. The main character, Michael Sykora, has lost the woman he loves when she becomes the victim of a brutal murder. Sykora quest for justice leads him along a dangerous path where the action doesn’t let up. Helle skillfully gives us glimpses of the traumatic events that make Sykora who he is.
The characters in this book are believable, the scenes are easy to visualize, and the quest for justice is one that has tempted all of us who have been wronged. I highly recommend this book to everyone who has been a fan of John D. McDonald, Robert Crais, Robert B. Parker, or Evan Hunter. I am waiting patiently for Darcia Helle’s sequel to No Justice.
by Darcia Helle
Review by Joe Prentis
As a longtime fan of suspense novels, I have become increasingly disappointed with this genre over the last few years. In many recent books, the authors have tried to dazzling us with the latest electronic gadgets at the expense of the story. It is refreshing to find an author like Darcia Helle who understands what it takes to hold everyone’s attention, while the plot sweeps us along to a logical and satisfying conclusion.
This book gets off to a good start almost from the first sentence, and makes you want to continue turning the pages all the way through. The main character, Michael Sykora, has lost the woman he loves when she becomes the victim of a brutal murder. Sykora quest for justice leads him along a dangerous path where the action doesn’t let up. Helle skillfully gives us glimpses of the traumatic events that make Sykora who he is.
The characters in this book are believable, the scenes are easy to visualize, and the quest for justice is one that has tempted all of us who have been wronged. I highly recommend this book to everyone who has been a fan of John D. McDonald, Robert Crais, Robert B. Parker, or Evan Hunter. I am waiting patiently for Darcia Helle’s sequel to No Justice.
September 16, 2009
I kept thinking that I could not decide between 4 or 5 stars review for the book. Finally, I decided on 5 stars, because the only ones better would have been the absolute masters of the mystery like Agatha Christie, early Robert B. Parker, M.Connoly and etc.
"No Justice" brings to life a complicated character who is a software designer by day and a killer for hire at night. Only he does not kill everyone, he gets rid of the worst criminals justice system seems to overlook or punish with a slap on the wrist. Sometimes he gets paid for his work, sometimes he does not.
The book is past paced, all the characters are well developed, language is flawless. I found it easy to relate to Michael Sykora, the Ghost, self-made vigilante, a person with many layers, with mysteries in his past and present. He is part comic book hero come to life, part everyday Joe figuring out his relationships with his parents.
I liked Nikki, ex-prostitute turned women's counselor, but I did not think she was believable as ex-prostitute. Otherwise, the big question for me was: how likely am I to read the next book in the series? Very likely!
"No Justice" brings to life a complicated character who is a software designer by day and a killer for hire at night. Only he does not kill everyone, he gets rid of the worst criminals justice system seems to overlook or punish with a slap on the wrist. Sometimes he gets paid for his work, sometimes he does not.
The book is past paced, all the characters are well developed, language is flawless. I found it easy to relate to Michael Sykora, the Ghost, self-made vigilante, a person with many layers, with mysteries in his past and present. He is part comic book hero come to life, part everyday Joe figuring out his relationships with his parents.
I liked Nikki, ex-prostitute turned women's counselor, but I did not think she was believable as ex-prostitute. Otherwise, the big question for me was: how likely am I to read the next book in the series? Very likely!
March 7, 2010
No Justice (Darcia Helle). Fantastic read.
Michael Sykora is an average guy. He has his own software design business and a beautiful home. But he is not what everyone thinks he is. He is emotionally scarred by the brutal death of his girlfriend, and desires vengeance and justice. Not many know that he is also a hit-man, taking out the pestilence of society, rapists, pedophiles and perverts, he is known as The Ghost.
When his close friend Nicki, ex prostitute, now social worker calls him in dire need Michael is there for her. Nicki gets into a situation, more than she has bargained for and Michael is the only one who can help. Soon it becomes a race for time, as Nicki's life is threatened. Ms. Helle brings to life her characters and creates a nail biting thriller/psychological suspense. The ending is perfect and leaves readers needing to read the next Michael Sykora Novel; Beyond Salvation. A must read for suspense lovers.
Michael Sykora is an average guy. He has his own software design business and a beautiful home. But he is not what everyone thinks he is. He is emotionally scarred by the brutal death of his girlfriend, and desires vengeance and justice. Not many know that he is also a hit-man, taking out the pestilence of society, rapists, pedophiles and perverts, he is known as The Ghost.
When his close friend Nicki, ex prostitute, now social worker calls him in dire need Michael is there for her. Nicki gets into a situation, more than she has bargained for and Michael is the only one who can help. Soon it becomes a race for time, as Nicki's life is threatened. Ms. Helle brings to life her characters and creates a nail biting thriller/psychological suspense. The ending is perfect and leaves readers needing to read the next Michael Sykora Novel; Beyond Salvation. A must read for suspense lovers.
June 6, 2011
Darcia Helle has done it again by creating A Michael Sykora Novel that I could not put down.
Michael Sykora ia a software engineer by day, and a hit-man by night. He gets rid of the worst criminals the justice system seems to overlook.When his close friend Nicki, ex prostitute, now social worker calls him in need, Michael is there for her. Nicki gets into a situation, more than she has bargained for and Michael is the only one who can help. Soon it becomes a race for time, as Nicki's life is threatened. Ms. Helle brings to life her characters and creates a nail biting thriller/psychological suspense. The ending is perfect and leaves readers needing to read the next Michael Sykora Novel; Beyond Salvation. I will read it next.
A definate must read for suspense lovers.
Thanks Darcia
Michael Sykora ia a software engineer by day, and a hit-man by night. He gets rid of the worst criminals the justice system seems to overlook.When his close friend Nicki, ex prostitute, now social worker calls him in need, Michael is there for her. Nicki gets into a situation, more than she has bargained for and Michael is the only one who can help. Soon it becomes a race for time, as Nicki's life is threatened. Ms. Helle brings to life her characters and creates a nail biting thriller/psychological suspense. The ending is perfect and leaves readers needing to read the next Michael Sykora Novel; Beyond Salvation. I will read it next.
A definate must read for suspense lovers.
Thanks Darcia
April 19, 2010
No Justice is an action-packed thriller with excellent pacing. Michael Sykora is a software engineer by day, and seeker of justice (for hire) by night. Helle does a great job of shading in the backstory between high tension scenes.
But action is clearly the autor's area of expertise. The obstacles Sykora encounters are very realistic. The scenes are depicted with a light brush stroke, never detracting from the momentum of building tension. Even though we've seen the protagonist in action several times before the climax, the story still reaches a full and satisfying crescendo as the level of intensity goes off the charts.
But action is clearly the autor's area of expertise. The obstacles Sykora encounters are very realistic. The scenes are depicted with a light brush stroke, never detracting from the momentum of building tension. Even though we've seen the protagonist in action several times before the climax, the story still reaches a full and satisfying crescendo as the level of intensity goes off the charts.
October 11, 2009
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The question of "What would you do to protect someone you love" is something my husband and I have discussed as a ethical issue. This book asks a different question "How far would you go to avenge a loved one?". The book is well written and good thriller. It is one of my favorite genres and this book reminded me of how much I enjoy reading mysteries and thrillers. I will definitely order the sequel to this book.
March 23, 2010
Michael is a software designer a smart likeable guy . To a chosen few he is a part time hitman . whose specialty is getting rid of hard core crimimals. Having lost his fiance to a brutal crime. He has decided to help keep other women from losing their lifes like his fiance did. he is a viglante against rapists and other criminals
October 15, 2018
Bad guys, good guys, when is one or the other?
Ms Helle has a definite connection with her characters. Not only does each have a distinctive voice but their personalities are strong and varied. There is nothing typical with the characters, you like and hate them in turns. Although not a mystery, she tells you what to expect, it is still a great story about justice(?), maybe revenge, from beginning to end. The thought that hitmen could be good guys is not usually the plot in a crime novel, but Michael and Sean could change your mind.
If you haven't read it yet, you should definitely check out "No Fear". This collection of very short chapters centered around murder is an excellent example of Ms Helle's talent. No chapter is the same, each voice is distinctive and unique. Her range of characters and personalities are astonishing. What a great talent even lowly readers will enjoy and be inspired by. Be sure to find this little gem! The last chapter will stay with you.
Ms Helle has a definite connection with her characters. Not only does each have a distinctive voice but their personalities are strong and varied. There is nothing typical with the characters, you like and hate them in turns. Although not a mystery, she tells you what to expect, it is still a great story about justice(?), maybe revenge, from beginning to end. The thought that hitmen could be good guys is not usually the plot in a crime novel, but Michael and Sean could change your mind.
If you haven't read it yet, you should definitely check out "No Fear". This collection of very short chapters centered around murder is an excellent example of Ms Helle's talent. No chapter is the same, each voice is distinctive and unique. Her range of characters and personalities are astonishing. What a great talent even lowly readers will enjoy and be inspired by. Be sure to find this little gem! The last chapter will stay with you.
January 15, 2024
I am all in. After letting this sit on my shelf for way too long I am deeply invested and even turned the last page back and forth more than once just hoping another chapter would appear.
Michael Sykora is a software designer by day, a hit man for hire by night. Michael has spent his nights killing bad guys, making the world a better place and being a loner. And then his estranged friend Nicki reaches out after getting involved with the wrong people. And Michael decides to help her the only way he knows how.
This book has a little bit of violence, a little bit of sex, some mystery, relationships and I am so invested in finding out what happens to Michael and Nicki. This was a fun, entertaining, thrilling read.
Michael Sykora is a software designer by day, a hit man for hire by night. Michael has spent his nights killing bad guys, making the world a better place and being a loner. And then his estranged friend Nicki reaches out after getting involved with the wrong people. And Michael decides to help her the only way he knows how.
This book has a little bit of violence, a little bit of sex, some mystery, relationships and I am so invested in finding out what happens to Michael and Nicki. This was a fun, entertaining, thrilling read.
April 16, 2019
This is a great book. I didn’t think I would be on the side of a hit man, but I was. The characters are realistic and portrayed well, the pace is just right and the element of mystery keeps you reading. Details about the main character’s past comes out without it feeling like a history lesson. It ends in a way that you can stop readying the series without being plagued with unanswered questions, but you won’t want to. I will definitely be reading more. I hope this is the first in a very long series.
November 7, 2017
An assassin that only kills bad guys and a reformed prostitute – only in fiction. Yet, the author carried it off, getting me to like both of them. Although the plot follows the usual structure and the good guys win at the end, the writer’s strength is in her characterizations. All of her characters came alive and were believable. Dialogue was spot on. And, I did not see a single typo or grammatical error. I heartily recommend.
September 29, 2017
A compelling four-hour read. Do NOT choose this as bedtime reading if you must be up on time next day. Short chapters so (in theory) one COULD set it down, but the story moves so swiftly one keeps thinking, "I need to see what happens in these next three pages, next four pages, next page...".
I received this book as a gift and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
I received this book as a gift and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
July 16, 2018
A very good read!
Just when you think good guys follow the rules along comes Michael! This is my first book from this author, and I will read more of her works. Fast paced, with excellent characterizations, and believable scenarios. If you like goods guys that take the garbage out, you will enjoy this book.
Just when you think good guys follow the rules along comes Michael! This is my first book from this author, and I will read more of her works. Fast paced, with excellent characterizations, and believable scenarios. If you like goods guys that take the garbage out, you will enjoy this book.
February 23, 2020
Grief turned this computer specialist , into becoming a hit man part time.
The grief has become less, a memory now, he still can’t seem to move on. He has a close friend an ex prostitute Nicki, she knows too much, vicious killers are after her. The author has a unique way of writing that make this seem believe. Different with a number of hits, and how it ties up in the end.
The grief has become less, a memory now, he still can’t seem to move on. He has a close friend an ex prostitute Nicki, she knows too much, vicious killers are after her. The author has a unique way of writing that make this seem believe. Different with a number of hits, and how it ties up in the end.
September 10, 2017
This was an interesting, fully fleshed out character but not all were. It was a good story line with suspenseful moments. I danced around the room after I finished it because I was so glad it was over. I feel like the author was paid by the word and this book is drowning in superfluous words and numbing tedium. If one took 30% out of it, I think the pace would match the tense story line. Won't read 2 & 3.
I finished the book because that's the deal when you get a free book. You must review it.
I finished the book because that's the deal when you get a free book. You must review it.
September 15, 2017
All in a day's work
I really like the main character who is good and evil, treading lightly between the two with firm purpose. I also like being in his thought process as he navigates each day. Really intense ending.
I really like the main character who is good and evil, treading lightly between the two with firm purpose. I also like being in his thought process as he navigates each day. Really intense ending.
January 22, 2018
A knight in shining armor.
Michael is like Batman or Superman, a hidden identity. There was no sex but it was alluded to. I didn't care for the language but I would read another. It kept you on the edge of your seat.
Michael is like Batman or Superman, a hidden identity. There was no sex but it was alluded to. I didn't care for the language but I would read another. It kept you on the edge of your seat.
November 21, 2019
Software engineer by day,killer by night.Great premise for a book.
So similar to story of Dexter,that it had me hooked right from the start.
A great rollercoaster of a ride,with brilliant characters.
I cannot wait to read the next in this series.
So similar to story of Dexter,that it had me hooked right from the start.
A great rollercoaster of a ride,with brilliant characters.
I cannot wait to read the next in this series.
December 15, 2018
The Best of the Best Suspense Novel
You will find it practically impossible to put it down. I'm going to buy the last two books in the series before the prices are raised. ...LOL
You will find it practically impossible to put it down. I'm going to buy the last two books in the series before the prices are raised. ...LOL
May 19, 2019
Great book!!
Wow, lots of action. Hard to put down. Had to stay up and finish it. Good guy/Bad guy? You decide.
Wow, lots of action. Hard to put down. Had to stay up and finish it. Good guy/Bad guy? You decide.
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