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IA: Invincible Assassin

John Darryl Winston (Goodreads Author)

4.81 · Rating details · 37 ratings · 32 reviews

The only thing worse than having nothing to live for is having nothing to lose

When tragedy strikes his best friend, Harvis Young knows there will be a reckoning, especially since Naz Andersen possesses the supernatural powers of a god.

Now it’s up to Harvis to save the guilty from Naz’s wrath. Beyond the mean streets of Marshal Park, Harvis will discover a darker path than ...more

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Paperback, 136 pages

Published October 9th 2018 by BHC Press/H2O

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· 37 ratings · 32 reviews

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Sep 30, 2018 Dianne rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: almost-speechless-good, arc-read, great-dialogue, ya-fantasy, ya-male-hero, author-review, great-teen-dialogue, own, strong-characters

Far darker and even more powerful than its predecessors, John Darryl Winston’s IA: INVINCIBLE ASSASSIN contains the raw beauty of soul-deep pain and the true friendship that will stop at nothing to dull it.

Naz has been emotionally destroyed, gutted to the core and now he’s on a mission of vengeance. Harvis is determined to save him from an unrecoverable reckoning, even if it means aiding him in his quest for retribution. Will Harvis be able to temper Naz’s supernatural rage? Can he save him from ...more

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Sep 23, 2018 John Winston rated it it was amazing · (Review from the author)

"Far darker and even more powerful than its predecessors, John Darryl Winston’s IA: INVINCIBLE ASSASSIN contains the raw beauty of soul-deep pain and the true friendship that will stop at nothing to dull it."

Dianne, Goodreads member and librarian.

I’ve had a lot of fun creating Naz Andersen and the IA origin novels, but I’d have to say I’ve had the most fun with this one, Invincible Assassin. Being able to get inside the head of my third favorite character behind Meri and Naz and experience Naz’ ...more

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Sep 14, 2018 E. Denise Billups rated it it was amazing

This is the third book of the IA series I’ve read and Mr. Winston’s voice keeps getting stronger and stronger. Invincible Assassin is told in the first person by the main protagonist’s (Naz) best friend, Harvis. Seeing Naz through another’s eyes was a clever move by Mr. Winston, especially, when the young man is raised by a military dad, the General, who wields structure and principles in his son’s life commandingly, and a wise mother who gives good advice. “We are put here for one reason and on This is the third book of the IA series I’ve read and Mr. Winston’s voice keeps getting stronger and stronger. Invincible Assassin is told in the first person by the main protagonist’s (Naz) best friend, Harvis. Seeing Naz through another’s eyes was a clever move by Mr. Winston, especially, when the young man is raised by a military dad, the General, who wields structure and principles in his son’s life commandingly, and a wise mother who gives good advice. “We are put here for one reason and one reason only . . . To help others.” Harvis’s parents, aware of their son’s dilemma, wield wisdom and guidelines to steer Harvis on his mission.

Concerned, Harvis aims to prevent Naz from forfeiting his soul to vengeance after Naz loses his sister, Meri to senseless gang violence. Harvis fears his supernaturally gifted friend will wield devastation against Enclave gangs and harm many in his vengeful path.

“He’s not ready to be a hero—he’s more likely to be a villain—so it’s my duty to keep an eye on him—but how? . . . If I could fly like Superman, I could watch over Naz until he weathered the storm.”

Using a birthday present from his dad, a military-grade AVP locator, Harvis devises a plan and attaches the AVP to unsuspecting NAZ. He tracks his every move, and keeps in mind his father’s directives— “…observe, discourage, and report only,” and his mother’s wisdom, “… go to your friend and be of service until time reveals that your mission is complete.” Can Harvis abide his parent’s mandates, observe from the sideline, remain uninvolved, and prevent his friend from hurting others with those Godly powers? When gang violence hits too close to home, Harvis’ resolve is tested. Will it be Naz or Harvis who needs saving?

Throughout the story, a disguised man appears intermittently. His intentions revealed later, suggest he’s an ally, not a rival. “I’m watching …I’m always watching.” Perhaps he’s Naz’s protector? Can’t wait to see what Mr. Winston reveals in the next series.

Naz’s plan to take out gang leaders unfolds with cleverly maneuvered fight scenes infused with Naz’s power to disarm criminals with a mere thought, leaving his enemies awed and fearful. The reader will question whether Naz has become a villain or a superhero, annihilating gangs and bringing peace to the Enclave. This thought held my attention to the end, hoping Naz would succeed in avenging Meri’s death not with bloody violence but a righteous power, thwarting the gang’s dominion. Mr. Winston’s story is timeless and loaded with messages for those willing to listen, young and old. Can’t wait to see where Naz’s story goes in the next series. Thanks for the awesome read, Mr. Winston.
...more

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Sep 23, 2018 S.D. Mayes rated it it was amazing

Shelves: arc

IA: Invincible is the third book in the IA series and it's not a standalone - you will need to have read the first two books to understand the characters. And this novella has Naz's friend Harvis narrating the story in first person as Harvis knows Naz is out for revenge and follows him, concerned for his safety and for the path that he will take in the name of justice.

For fans of the series this is another perspective on Naz through his friends eyes, and we are shown the dark times and grief th ...more

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Sep 24, 2018 Bibiana Krall rated it it was amazing

“Is death white or black or any color at all? Or maybe scarlet like blood, the true elixir of life? I watch the thick liquid drip from the crumbling wall while the slime in my grasp prepares to die.”

Invincible Assassin is the fourth book in the smash-hit IA Series, I’ve had the great pleasure of reading and reviewing.

Talented author John Darryl Winston brings us back once more to the urban landscape of The Exclave. It’s futuristic realism, a rendering of an expansive city with inhabitants strugg “Is death white or black or any color at all? Or maybe scarlet like blood, the true elixir of life? I watch the thick liquid drip from the crumbling wall while the slime in my grasp prepares to die.”

Invincible Assassin is the fourth book in the smash-hit IA Series, I’ve had the great pleasure of reading and reviewing.

Talented author John Darryl Winston brings us back once more to the urban landscape of The Exclave. It’s futuristic realism, a rendering of an expansive city with inhabitants struggling for personal safety, a good life and peace.

Something drastically changes in this novella that brings out a deeper, darker side to the main character in the series. Naz is an intelligent young man who has seen much adversity, experienced great personal loss and also, because of a very interesting past has superhuman powers. In this story his newfound perspective may even be seen as anti-hero. There are relevant reasons why he’s changed in the back-story which helps to understand why, and it makes total sense.

The changes are true to what any of us have seen when a good person loses their way and life comes to an impasse. Do they become that which they despise or grow in patience and wisdom?

The Art of War by Sun Tzu -- one of my all time favorites, an incredible book of philosophy and strategy is touched on at this point in the story and it’s a splendid example used to explain that which we may not initially see.

Naz will surprise you in this one and Harvis, one of his best friend’s gets his chance to speak, bring forth something better and grow into his own. What isn’t to like about a character with deep loyalty, showing his brotherhood in the real sense of genuine caring and giving a little shake up when his friend is straying off the good path?

Fight scenes with the gangs pushing for supreme power over the good people of The Exclave gave ample opportunities to speak of social issues, the struggle for survival and also much dearer one’s like: what real friendship means, the importance of facing your fears and never underestimating someone’s mettle & heart when the going gets rough.

The surprises thrown in to keep the action going totally delighted me. If I could be any character in this story I would want to be Stripe. Boom! Won’t say any more because I don’t want to spill the beans.

The graphics in this novella are stunning to look at. I loved the linear design. The emotion and imagery inside the text was embodied in the chapter headings. Just beautiful!

If you long for a well written and imaginative series where the memorable characters grow, change and become living, breathing, humans…this one is a must read for young and old alike.

You are going to love it! Everyone needs a hero, I choose Naz. ...more

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Oct 06, 2018 J.W. Garrett rated it it was amazing

I’ve got to admit after reading I.A. BOSS I wanted to hear more from Naz. More of his determination grit and resolve, but mostly how he would come out on the other side of his sister’s death, hopefully without sacrificing himself in the process. We find that out in Invincible Assassin, and more. But after reading and rereading, I can see now that writing this story through Harvis’ perspective was perfection. Seeing Naz through Harvis’ eyes offers a rare insight into what makes Naz tick. And as H ...more

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Oct 09, 2018 Lee rated it it was amazing

This is a nice addition to the IA series. I enjoyed the book being in the point of view of Naz's friend Harvis. It makes for a new perspective and an active storyline as Harvis is trying to beat the bad guys and keep track of his friend, Naz. There is some mystery as we try to figure out what everyone is up to. Harvis is worried about Naz and how he's doing. It's a bit of a roller coaster as we follow Naz and Harvis along their adventures. We see some more of Naz's special abilities and in this ...more

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Sep 29, 2018 Paul Atreides rated it it was amazing

In IA: Invincible Assassin, author John Darryl Winston treats us to a novella which fills in a three week gap within his superb dystopian I.A. trilogy. Only this time the story is told via Harvis, aka “Wordsmith,” a secondary character in the original novels. Harvis’ point of view brings us right into the heart of the end Meri’s life which sent Naz on a nerve-rattling ride to find those responsible for his sister’s death. When Harvis defies his own father’s orders he must learn to trust his frie ...more

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Sep 09, 2018 jackmagnus rated it it was amazing

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Invincible Assassin: IA 2.5 is an urban fantasy/coming of age novel for young adults and preteens written by John Darryl Winston. While the author gives enough background for this book to be read as a standalone novel, I would strongly recommend reading these books in order to get the full impact of the series. Naz seemed to have left the world behind after his sister, Meri, was killed. She had been everything to him, and he had felt so deeply his rol Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Invincible Assassin: IA 2.5 is an urban fantasy/coming of age novel for young adults and preteens written by John Darryl Winston. While the author gives enough background for this book to be read as a standalone novel, I would strongly recommend reading these books in order to get the full impact of the series. Naz seemed to have left the world behind after his sister, Meri, was killed. She had been everything to him, and he had felt so deeply his role as her protector, so losing her seemed a mortal blow to Naz’s very identity. Harvis knew probably more than anyone else could just how deeply Naz had been wounded, and he was also more aware of Naz’s latent and frighteningly powerful abilities. The self-styled Wordsmith knew he had to act to save Naz from himself, and only he could do this for his best friend. His dad, the General, seemed to instinctively know these things, and he was quite eloquent in his own way about supporting whatever Harvis would have to do.

Invincible Assassin: IA 2.5 is a little bit different from the other books in this most remarkable series in that the story is presented from the perspective of Harvis aka Wordsmith, and his perspective is a marvelous one indeed. I love the crazy contradictions and inherent strangeness of this young man whose strict military-style training only seems to enhance his ability to think outside the proverbial box. His role as Naz’s erstwhile support system and guardian enhances this compelling story, which has grand, fast-moving and glorious fight scenes that even readers who don’t normally care for extended descriptions of battles will enjoy. Harvis is a complex, multi-faceted and infinitely appealing character whose penchant for writing poetry and his effortless ability to put down opponents who far outnumber and outweigh him work synergistically to create a dynamic character worth following. I’m looking forward to seeing more of Naz and Harvis in future stories. Invincible Assassin: IA 2.5 is most highly recommended.
...more

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Sep 24, 2018 Barb Evenson rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

A novella of substance. The author's ability to set the scene drew me into this little gem as if I were watching it on a screen. IA: Invincible Assassin is a great appetizer, making me hungry for more of the story of Naz as the Invincible Assassin. I loved getting a glimpse into Harvis, The Wordsmith's life and loyalty from his point of view.
I can't recommend the complete IA series enough! ...more

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Sep 23, 2018 Allison Maruska rated it it was amazing

Invincible Assassin is a perfect follow-up to the IA trilogy. I enjoyed reading from Harvis's perspective, seeing Naz's story through a new set of eyes. Winston has a gift for pulling heart strings, and this book is no exception! ...more

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Oct 21, 2018 Taryn Rydell rated it it was amazing

What a pleasant surprise. Just when I thought the IA series was over, my book club partner in crime and fellow moderator gives us another treat. Invincible Assassin is a little book that packs a wallop in more ways than one. It’s nothing short of genius for Winston to change it up and give us Naz’s best friend, Harvis as the main character, and he’s just as compelling a character in this lead role. As a bonus, more layers are pulled back in the story, and the story ramps up in speed and pacing. ...more

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Oct 09, 2018 Julie B Campbell rated it it was amazing

This novella captured me right from the start! I know that sounds cliché, but it really caught me. I'd liked Harvis up until now, but it was fascinating to see the world and the story from his perspective. Seeing the world through his mind was like visiting with a friend, and, at the same time, it was like a bit of behind-the-scenes insight into the main IA trilogy. Everything we've seen of him through Naz's story was given new layers, new interest and new life. Harvis's character was always wel ...more

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Dec 24, 2018 Letitgo rated it it was amazing

This was so obvious to me, not the story but that a series like this should have a series of short stories and novellas to go with it. How about a story about the adults in the series, Fears, Cory, Camille, The General, Pauling, Bearn, and Dr. Gwen. They all seem to know each other and it would be interesting to hear how some things may have played out that started Naz on his journey. And how about one with Wintersal kids. That would be a good one. It could be like the X-kids, with powers and al ...more

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Oct 10, 2018 Ravenna Young rated it it was amazing

When you fangirl, you jump at the opportunity and the absolute honor of receiving a sneak peek at your favorite author's upcoming works. It’s especially awesome when it’s a novella and side story promising a fantastic ride. Invincible Assassin was a gem, written from the perspective of Harvis/Wordsmith and it had the makings of a teenage spy novel with more intrigue than you can shake a stick at.

Harvis is a typical teenage boy who loves his mamma, respects his father, plays video games, and has ...more

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Oct 07, 2018 BookzBookzBookz rated it it was amazing

Invincible Assassin is a sneak peek into what's to come for Naz and Harvis- it's a window, where we're given the opportunity to see the demi-god that is Naz at an angle. What I mean is that the story isn't coming from Naz's POV but Harvis. Winston allowed us to see through someone else's eyes in a loving, trolling, conspiratorial manner. Everything Harvis did was for his friend, even when his friend didn't want it.

The admirable part was how everything was implemented. How Harvis received advice ...more

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Sep 23, 2018 Kim rated it really liked it

Invincible Assassin by John Darryl Winston is a shorter in between book of the IA series, and is told through the eyes of Harvis. You will need knowledge from the previous two books to truly understand and enjoy book 2.5 in the series! In this little novel (it will take you 2-3 hours to read), you follow Harvis as he tries to help Naz through the time after Meri's funeral. Naz has disappeared, but Harvis - knowing his friend - finds him at Meri's grave after the funeral. Naz is out for revenge a Invincible Assassin by John Darryl Winston is a shorter in between book of the IA series, and is told through the eyes of Harvis. You will need knowledge from the previous two books to truly understand and enjoy book 2.5 in the series! In this little novel (it will take you 2-3 hours to read), you follow Harvis as he tries to help Naz through the time after Meri's funeral. Naz has disappeared, but Harvis - knowing his friend - finds him at Meri's grave after the funeral. Naz is out for revenge and wants to find out who the boss of all the gangs truly is. Harvis, however, manages to convince him to wait three weeks; he will try to find the information his way. But three weeks pass, and Naz turns into the Invisible Assassin, causing fear amongst the different gangs. Harvis decides he can't let Naz do this alone, and soon both find themselves in danger: outnumbered and surrounded by what’s left of the Incubus Apostles.

I enjoyed reading Invincible Assassin by John Darryl Winston because I liked the characters from his previous books but I was disappointed that it was short. It's more of a novella than a full length novel. I can see that the actual plot wouldn't work for anything longer. So, in the end, a short version with excitement is a lot better than a drawn out version that would make you yawn. I truly enjoy the author's writing style, and even though it has been a while since I read the first two books in the series, it was incredibly easy to reconnect with Harvis and Naz. Naz isn't someone you forget that easily. They go through quite a dark time in this part of the series, but then, life hasn't been easy for them. I liked how Harvis changed within the story, and how this caused Naz to change in a different direction. For a while, I was a little bit concerned about the path he was taking. Fans of the series will love this little book and it makes you understand a bit more about the development of those two interesting characters, but also sets up a few questions that can be answered in the future. ...more

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Sep 30, 2018 Christian Turner rated it it was amazing

Harvis is the man, only he doesn't have the power like Naz. In my opinion this is the best book of them all. It should have been a graphic novel. It still can be with all the fight scenes and action. I'm not much into poetry but the wordsmith has skills. I hope there are more IA books in the future. ...more

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Oct 15, 2018 Stephanie Jane rated it really liked it

Shelves: fiction-americas, fiction-ya

See more of my book reviews on my blog, Literary Flits

This new installment in John Winston's IA series slots in between IA: B.O.S.S. and IA: Union and I would advise having read at least the first two books in the series before turning to IA: Invincible Assassin in order to avoid any inadvertent spoilers and to understand the backstory which has led to Naz's intense grief. Winston took the brave decision to narrate IA: Invincible Assassin from the point of view of Harvis Young, a supporting char ...more

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Oct 13, 2018 Eivette Martinez rated it it was amazing

I was skeptical when I read all the glowing reviews, but after reading the novella in one sitting, I have to agree with the majority. Assassin may be the best book in the series. Walking in Harivis's shoes is addictive and to be honest, the book is too short. I was frustrated when it came to an end. The Wordsmith and Naz make one hell of a team. I look forward to the next adventure. Please make it a full novel. ...more

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Oct 10, 2018 Devin Dann rated it it was amazing

Harvis needs his own series. The novella was just as good as the rest of the series if not better and it definitely answered some questions. I holding out for more books in this series, the best kept secret in the YA genre.

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Jul 18, 2019 L.S. Bergman rated it it was amazing

This book was just 'wow'! John Darryl Winston takes the reader back on one heck of a dystopian adventure in the Exclave, right to the brink of possibility through the voice of Harvis, Naz's best friend, and the action-packed exploits of an unlikely hero.

The adventure of Naz continues to send you reeling through his haunting loss and love for his dear sister Meri, while grappling with that soul-driven desire to right all those terrible series of wrongs, but unsure of exactly how to do so.

This b ...more

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Dec 28, 2018 Phil Leader rated it it was amazing

Shelves: reviewed

Following on from the events in IA: B.O.S.S. and it's shattering ending, this book sees the world of Naz and the Exclave through the eyes of Harvis Young. A friend of Naz who has his own mysteries, Harvis sees how broken Naz is and resolves to protect him - or protect the world from him.

Naz is bent on revenge and with his superhuman powers could do more harm than good. Harvis must act as Naz's conscience but is also sympathetic to his cause.

Billed as an 'IA Origin' story, this provides a lot of ...more

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Nov 28, 2018 Kade Cook rated it it was amazing

This was such an interesting twist to the IA series, not only did you get into the more edgier sides of the story but you got to see Naz from the perspective of one of his most trusted friends. It was dark and igniting, and so terribly heart wrenching at times. There is just so much going on that you had no idea about before—it keeps you hooked to the pages.
Harvis or aka Wordsmith’s retelling makes you feel like you are entering into an adolescent spy adventure as well as a supernatural journey ...more

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Nov 25, 2018 Valerie Winston rated it it was amazing

This novella is a nice tie-in between BOSS and Union. It adds more depth and dimension to the characters of Naz and Harvis, as well as, adding depth and dimension to their friendship. You gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of what they characters have experienced and what draws them together as friends. Because of all the tragedy Naz has suffered, he leans toward being a loner and tries to handle things on his own. Harvis becomes a friend, confidante', support, and even mentor for Naz as ...more

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Nov 05, 2018 Marquette rated it it was amazing

Nice little add-on to an already great series. Harvis is a hero is his own right, and Naz shines from afar. Love the poetry. It was very unexpected. I wondered how far the author would go with Naz. How deep would he take him from a morality standpoint? Would he cross the line? And then from nowhere, it's Harvis. ...more

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Dec 09, 2018 Marvel Childs rated it it was amazing

Awesome twist, making one of the side characters the main character and then making the main character almost the villain. This was has a lot of action and adventure to it. The fight scenes are choreographed well. The book almost feels like a spy story and the poems throughout make a nice touch. Well put together. I'm hoping more books are released from this series in the future. ...more

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Oct 24, 2018 Ipuna Black rated it it was amazing

Invincible Assassin is the darkest book of the series, but I liked it. It showed the growth and maturity of Harvis and Naz. Winston does a great job with plot twists and bringing you close to his characters. The music and poetry in this fast-paced book are moving.

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Oct 26, 2018 Armani Porterfield rated it it was amazing

A refreshing little book for a wicked underrated series. I love Harvis. He could have a series of his own. I just know this is not the end, and I'm looking forward to more. Bring it on John Darryl Winston. ...more

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Sep 10, 2018 Amanda [Novel Addiction] rated it liked it

Shelves: teen, series, for-review, arc, school-library-journal

Review will be published in the October (?) edition of School Library Journal.

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About John Darryl Winston

John Darryl Winston

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Readers' Favorite Finalist 2015

Readers' Favorite Bronze Medalist 2016

Readers' Favorite Gold Medalist 2018

The IA series is an origin story by debut author John Darryl Winston. A Detroit native and public school educator, Winston created the coming of age hero's journey as part of a creative writing and 'Boys Read' program.

He is a graduate of The Recording ...more