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Code Dead
They thought it was an open and shut case, they were wrong.
When former MI6 agent Selwin Birks is found dead in his Costa Blanca villa, police call it a suicide. A few days later, MI5 agent Chris Kane is also found dead, killed on his boat. But the local police can see no connection.
Maverick Government agent Sam Taylor knows better…
Tasked with unraveling the mystery, Sam arrives in Spain - knowing he must find the connection before it finds him.
Walking into an ever-evolving net of lies, treachery and danger, Sam must join the dots in a race against time. Chasing shadows and not knowing who to trust, Sam is thrust into the very heart of the Spanish criminal underworld.
Determined to get answers, Sam and Birks' estranged daughter, Tilly, follow a trail of bodies and betrayal. When the truth leads them to a strange local businessman, known only as "the Chief," the stakes explode as the true horror of the operation is uncovered…
Faced with the fact his life is at stake; Sam finds himself in a brutal showdown with nothing to rely on but his instincts. Set under the Mediterranean sun, Sam Taylor faces his biggest test yet.
As the saying goes, everyone dies, but death comes quicker for some…
When former MI6 agent Selwin Birks is found dead in his Costa Blanca villa, police call it a suicide. A few days later, MI5 agent Chris Kane is also found dead, killed on his boat. But the local police can see no connection.
Maverick Government agent Sam Taylor knows better…
Tasked with unraveling the mystery, Sam arrives in Spain - knowing he must find the connection before it finds him.
Walking into an ever-evolving net of lies, treachery and danger, Sam must join the dots in a race against time. Chasing shadows and not knowing who to trust, Sam is thrust into the very heart of the Spanish criminal underworld.
Determined to get answers, Sam and Birks' estranged daughter, Tilly, follow a trail of bodies and betrayal. When the truth leads them to a strange local businessman, known only as "the Chief," the stakes explode as the true horror of the operation is uncovered…
Faced with the fact his life is at stake; Sam finds himself in a brutal showdown with nothing to rely on but his instincts. Set under the Mediterranean sun, Sam Taylor faces his biggest test yet.
As the saying goes, everyone dies, but death comes quicker for some…
343 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2025
16 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 10, 2025
What I love about crime series is the abilty to start at any book. This is my first in Ben’s series (Code Dead being the third), but I did not feel like I was being alienated from any of the storyline. It just makes this book such a delight for any sort of crime fiction fan.
A fully packed, storm fused, gripping story that follows Sam Taylor, Maverick government agent…
I think what Ben truly does well is setting his scenes. He goes fully in depth to where we are without it feeling overly wordy or fanciful. I truly felt like I was right there.
Thank you to LoveBooksTours and Ben Baldwin for the free copy of this book to review.
#AD #LBTCrew #bookstagram #FreeBookReview
A fully packed, storm fused, gripping story that follows Sam Taylor, Maverick government agent…
I think what Ben truly does well is setting his scenes. He goes fully in depth to where we are without it feeling overly wordy or fanciful. I truly felt like I was right there.
Thank you to LoveBooksTours and Ben Baldwin for the free copy of this book to review.
#AD #LBTCrew #bookstagram #FreeBookReview
December 13, 2025
Wow! What an absolute whirlwind of a book. Book one was great, so was book two, but this? Even better! Even though they are a series, they can be read as stand alone books, but I would highly recommend reading them all.
As Sam Taylor heads home from his most recent assignment, dreaming of his cosy bed, little does he know that he is about to be sent straight back out on another assignment! He heads off to Spain this time to investigate the death of a former MI6 agent. But of course, nothing is straight forward and as another body is found, Sam wonders just what the old MI6 agent was up to and how his death links to everything else going on.
Now, I don’t want to give much away, but I can tell you, you won’t want to put this down, especially towards the end as this story ups the pace even more!
Sam is back and his character comes through more than ever. His humour and wit will have you laughing out loud, often at inappropriate moments! I love how his character has been written and feel he really comes into his own in this instalment.
It’s really interesting seeing Sam work in different places and with different people and how his reputation proceeds him.
So basically pick it up and read it, you will not be disappointed!!
As Sam Taylor heads home from his most recent assignment, dreaming of his cosy bed, little does he know that he is about to be sent straight back out on another assignment! He heads off to Spain this time to investigate the death of a former MI6 agent. But of course, nothing is straight forward and as another body is found, Sam wonders just what the old MI6 agent was up to and how his death links to everything else going on.
Now, I don’t want to give much away, but I can tell you, you won’t want to put this down, especially towards the end as this story ups the pace even more!
Sam is back and his character comes through more than ever. His humour and wit will have you laughing out loud, often at inappropriate moments! I love how his character has been written and feel he really comes into his own in this instalment.
It’s really interesting seeing Sam work in different places and with different people and how his reputation proceeds him.
So basically pick it up and read it, you will not be disappointed!!
December 17, 2025
This was another cracking instalment and such an enjoyable read.
Sam’s dry wit and understated humour shine throughout, adding just the right amount of light relief to the steadily building tension. It never undercuts the danger. It simply makes him feel more real.
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Sam and Tilly. She more than holds her own, matching Sam beat for beat while also keeping him grounded, and their relationship adds real heart to the story. I hope we may see her again under happier circumstances cross paths with Sam.
The setting of Jávéa is beautifully used. The author’s local knowledge really shows and brings the location to life. I could imagine being there and almost feel the heat rising off the pages, which made the action feel even more intense.
The pacing was spot on from start to finish. It kept me turning pages, with all the threads coming together in a way I didn’t see coming until the very end. The tension builds brilliantly, with plenty of action along the way (that final bull scene was especially unforgettable!).
I also loved the teaser for what’s to come next. Safe to say the next book is already firmly on my list.
Sam’s dry wit and understated humour shine throughout, adding just the right amount of light relief to the steadily building tension. It never undercuts the danger. It simply makes him feel more real.
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Sam and Tilly. She more than holds her own, matching Sam beat for beat while also keeping him grounded, and their relationship adds real heart to the story. I hope we may see her again under happier circumstances cross paths with Sam.
The setting of Jávéa is beautifully used. The author’s local knowledge really shows and brings the location to life. I could imagine being there and almost feel the heat rising off the pages, which made the action feel even more intense.
The pacing was spot on from start to finish. It kept me turning pages, with all the threads coming together in a way I didn’t see coming until the very end. The tension builds brilliantly, with plenty of action along the way (that final bull scene was especially unforgettable!).
I also loved the teaser for what’s to come next. Safe to say the next book is already firmly on my list.
November 20, 2025
This reminded me of an early James Bond novel; totally far fetched, with a hero battling impossible odds and merrily dispatching his enemies whilst cracking jokes. I do accept that some of the crimes described are real and horrendous, but the villains were ruthless and cold blooded beyond belief, whereas the hero was too brave and unflappable. It was also littered with beautiful, often scantily dressed, women, succumbing to the hero’s charms. I quite enjoyed it, though thought it was rather disparaging about the Spanish authorities. The author obviously knows the area, but, to me, he didn’t capture the essence of everything that is wonderful about Spain. Even the best restaurant was run by an English couple, and the tapas were certainly not typical of any that I have been served in Spanish establishments. Where was the mention of Spanish generosity and hospitality? So, as a piece of fantasy, it was an engaging read. It could, however, have been far more genuine and less bloodthirsty.
December 18, 2025
A thrilling ride from start to finish. The pacing is sharp and relentless, pulling you straight into a high-stakes story packed with tension, danger, and twists that kept me glued to the page. It’s the kind of book where “just one more chapter” turns into finishing the whole thing.
The characters are engaging and well written, and I really enjoyed the balance between action and character development. The tech-driven elements were especially interesting and added a fresh edge to the story without feeling overwhelming. Everything flowed smoothly, making it an easy and addictive read.
If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with smart concepts, strong momentum, and plenty of suspense, Code Dead is a great pick. Ben Baldwin delivers an exciting story that keeps you entertained from beginning to end.
The characters are engaging and well written, and I really enjoyed the balance between action and character development. The tech-driven elements were especially interesting and added a fresh edge to the story without feeling overwhelming. Everything flowed smoothly, making it an easy and addictive read.
If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with smart concepts, strong momentum, and plenty of suspense, Code Dead is a great pick. Ben Baldwin delivers an exciting story that keeps you entertained from beginning to end.
December 14, 2025
Well, I'm back again, this time with the third book in the Sam Taylor Thriller series and so soon after reading the last book, Spy Code.
Having read Code Red (book 1) last year, I was excited to follow the series and it was great to binge these two reads almost in one go this time round.
In this book we head off to the sunny shores of Spain, but Taylor is definitely not in holiday mode as the bodies of two agents are found dead within days of each other and although the local police see no connection, Sam definitely sees the need to investigate.
Although all this travelling around much be great, I really feel for Sam as there is never anyone close to him who he can rely on or trust. He's kind of on his own out there and the more he digs, the more he's uncovering and putting his own life at risk.
This was another great case which was packed with twists and turns and I just couldn't work out who to trust.
I like that these are super fast paced reads and so full of action that you just can't help reading on just another chapter ....and another.
I'm not normally a spy reader, but have definitely got myself hooked on this series now and will have to be a little more patient awaiting the next book to be released.
I'm looking forward to seeing what awaits Sam there and also seeing where in the world we'll be jetting off to!
Having read Code Red (book 1) last year, I was excited to follow the series and it was great to binge these two reads almost in one go this time round.
In this book we head off to the sunny shores of Spain, but Taylor is definitely not in holiday mode as the bodies of two agents are found dead within days of each other and although the local police see no connection, Sam definitely sees the need to investigate.
Although all this travelling around much be great, I really feel for Sam as there is never anyone close to him who he can rely on or trust. He's kind of on his own out there and the more he digs, the more he's uncovering and putting his own life at risk.
This was another great case which was packed with twists and turns and I just couldn't work out who to trust.
I like that these are super fast paced reads and so full of action that you just can't help reading on just another chapter ....and another.
I'm not normally a spy reader, but have definitely got myself hooked on this series now and will have to be a little more patient awaiting the next book to be released.
I'm looking forward to seeing what awaits Sam there and also seeing where in the world we'll be jetting off to!
December 9, 2025
Thank you LBT for having me on this book review tour and for my gifted copy of this epub.
I was so excited for this next book in this series. I’ve loved both thus far and couldn’t wait for this one. I feel like each book just keeps getting better and better.
I loved the setting of this book and how it just draws you in and you can’t get out.
Sam’s character is so good he’s the hero and his investigation skills are on point and so discreet I was totally impressed!!
The action in this book was non stop and I found myself totally immersed in this book thinking I was there
I loved the ending and how it was open ended that means will be more I need more like asap !!!
I was so excited for this next book in this series. I’ve loved both thus far and couldn’t wait for this one. I feel like each book just keeps getting better and better.
I loved the setting of this book and how it just draws you in and you can’t get out.
Sam’s character is so good he’s the hero and his investigation skills are on point and so discreet I was totally impressed!!
The action in this book was non stop and I found myself totally immersed in this book thinking I was there
I loved the ending and how it was open ended that means will be more I need more like asap !!!
December 6, 2025
This is book 3 in the Sam Taylor Thriller series and it’s another great read from Ben Baldwin this time Sam is in Spain and danger is lurking.
It’s a fast paced, action packed read and although it’s part of a series you could read it as a standalone but you’d be missing out on some really good thrilling reads.
Full of twists and a really good storyline which leaves you wondering who to trust, hard to put down as you quickly become gripped in this plot.
With the little teaser at the end I cannot wait for what comes next for Sam Taylor.
It’s a fast paced, action packed read and although it’s part of a series you could read it as a standalone but you’d be missing out on some really good thrilling reads.
Full of twists and a really good storyline which leaves you wondering who to trust, hard to put down as you quickly become gripped in this plot.
With the little teaser at the end I cannot wait for what comes next for Sam Taylor.
December 11, 2025
Definitely recommend
Code Dead by Ben Baldwin.
A Sam Taylor Thriller Book Three.
I really did enjoy this book. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I am really enjoying this series. I don't want it happened end. I got into it straight away. I read this book in two sittings. I love Sam's character. How he was. This book was full of action. I loved the setting Spain. It was very well described. Full of twists and turns. I didn't know who to trust. Apart from Sam of course. I love how sneaky Sam was. I do hope there is more to come. I definitely recommend this series.
Code Dead by Ben Baldwin.
A Sam Taylor Thriller Book Three.
I really did enjoy this book. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I am really enjoying this series. I don't want it happened end. I got into it straight away. I read this book in two sittings. I love Sam's character. How he was. This book was full of action. I loved the setting Spain. It was very well described. Full of twists and turns. I didn't know who to trust. Apart from Sam of course. I love how sneaky Sam was. I do hope there is more to come. I definitely recommend this series.
December 7, 2025
The third book in a series that you REALLY need!!
I was so happy to read this after the first two! This is the best one yet!
Sam’s character as a hero, or focal point is someone you really want to do well!
The descriptions; the circumstances… you just can’t stop reading!
This instalment is in an unknown place after two in well known cities but you feel like you are there. Sam is a great main character and his investigation skills are discreet and really interesting
I was so happy to read this after the first two! This is the best one yet!
Sam’s character as a hero, or focal point is someone you really want to do well!
The descriptions; the circumstances… you just can’t stop reading!
This instalment is in an unknown place after two in well known cities but you feel like you are there. Sam is a great main character and his investigation skills are discreet and really interesting
December 18, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is the 3rd book in the Sam Taylor series.
Each book can be read as a standalone but there is a overriding back story which is easier to understand if you read the series in order.
There are twists and turns, death and a smidgen of romance.
It kept me guessing which is the most important thing for me in a mystery book.
A enjoyable, fast paced crime mystery which is an enjoyable easy read.
This is the 3rd book in the Sam Taylor series.
Each book can be read as a standalone but there is a overriding back story which is easier to understand if you read the series in order.
There are twists and turns, death and a smidgen of romance.
It kept me guessing which is the most important thing for me in a mystery book.
A enjoyable, fast paced crime mystery which is an enjoyable easy read.
December 22, 2025
I am reviewing this book on behalf of my husband. I read the second book in this series and I absolutely loved it I think they can be read as standalones. It was one of my favourite books of the year and I couldn't wait to start this one. I was not disappointed, I found it to have a similar pacing to the previous book it was action packed, tense and non stop following Sam Taylor. Im not a big reader (in comparison to my wife) so when I find a set of books that keep my engaged its a highly win
November 20, 2025
This third offering in the series certainly lives up to expectations! Sam is at his witty, charming and devilish best.
Sam is as relentless in his pursuit of the truth as ever, leaving no stone unturned.
I could feel the Spanish atmosphere as I read, and with an ending tied up as neatly as a carafe of sangria wrapped in a bow, I can't wait for the next one.
Sam is as relentless in his pursuit of the truth as ever, leaving no stone unturned.
I could feel the Spanish atmosphere as I read, and with an ending tied up as neatly as a carafe of sangria wrapped in a bow, I can't wait for the next one.
December 7, 2025
Wow!
My first Ben Baldwin book and honestly, will not be my last!
A fast paced, action packed read that had me hooked.
Just as I thought I was working out who did what, along comes a twist!
Originally I read this as a stand alone, I now *need* to go back and read the first two!
A huge thank you to Ben Baldwin, Bloodhound Books and LoveBooksTours for the arc.
My first Ben Baldwin book and honestly, will not be my last!
A fast paced, action packed read that had me hooked.
Just as I thought I was working out who did what, along comes a twist!
Originally I read this as a stand alone, I now *need* to go back and read the first two!
A huge thank you to Ben Baldwin, Bloodhound Books and LoveBooksTours for the arc.
November 4, 2025
Another great installment in the Sam Taylor series. Sam is tasked with looking into the death of a retired MI6 agent in Spain. There are several suspects and Sam mistrusts a lot of characters. Once again trouble finds Sam , yet his wit conrinues. An enjoyable action packed thrilling read.
November 17, 2025
I love Ben Baldwin's Sam Taylor series and Code Dead was just as good as the others. The setting is so well described that I could imagine myself there and with characters that are brought to life with ease it makes for a well written easy to follow read. Can't wait for the next one.
December 1, 2025
This is the first in The Sam Taylor series that I have read and it works well as a standalone.
It was fast paced and the characters and settings were well rounded. A great read and I will certainly be looking out for the other books in the series.
It was fast paced and the characters and settings were well rounded. A great read and I will certainly be looking out for the other books in the series.
December 9, 2025
Another great read in this series. Sam is a Repatriation Officer helping people in trouble to get back home to the UK. He gets himself into all sorts of trouble, but never loses his sense of humour. A very enjoyable series and very readable.
November 23, 2025
This is another great book. Sam is sent to Spain when an ex agent is found dead in his villa in what the local police are deeming a suicide. When he gets there, it is clear that the medical examiner is calling the shots and the police chief is not convinced. Neither is Sam and when he discovers that other ex-pats have also died recently, he is sure that everything is linked.
This was a riveting read. There's intrigue, action, an interesting part of the story involving bulls and basically a rollicking story that I found hard to put down. Highly recommended.
This was a riveting read. There's intrigue, action, an interesting part of the story involving bulls and basically a rollicking story that I found hard to put down. Highly recommended.
December 2, 2025
Our 3rd outing with British Govt repatriation agent Sam Taylor and after a trouble free Norwegian ‘job’ he finds himself hot footing it to the Costa Blanca where the mystery of ex MI6 agent Selwin Birks death is ruffling feathers back in London……the Spanish authorities are claiming it is suicide but others think differently and once again Sam is thrust into a world where secrets are rife and those keeping them want him as far away as possible…
I have been to the area in the book,Jávea (used to visit friends nearby)so it was good to be back there and the author knows the place very well,it brought back good memories,not so good for the folk in the small town now though as as well as Selwin there have been other unexplained deaths and deaths that seem to have been brushed under the carpet
Then Tilly,Selwins daughter arrives and the 2 strike up a banter immediately between them but are also determined to solve the murders
What follows is peril and danger and bulls (none are harmed) and some brutal decisions by Sam that are the difference between life and death
I like Sam,his ways and methods and also at times his humanness and vulnerability and his idealogy of getting stuck in and getting on with it
Another good story and look forward to Book 4
I have been to the area in the book,Jávea (used to visit friends nearby)so it was good to be back there and the author knows the place very well,it brought back good memories,not so good for the folk in the small town now though as as well as Selwin there have been other unexplained deaths and deaths that seem to have been brushed under the carpet
Then Tilly,Selwins daughter arrives and the 2 strike up a banter immediately between them but are also determined to solve the murders
What follows is peril and danger and bulls (none are harmed) and some brutal decisions by Sam that are the difference between life and death
I like Sam,his ways and methods and also at times his humanness and vulnerability and his idealogy of getting stuck in and getting on with it
Another good story and look forward to Book 4
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews