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The Hostage
“You get us what we want. Or your wife dies. And we will make it hurt.”
Jerome Prentice is a good guy. Loyal to a fault, he always stays on the right side of the law.
But everything changes the night he is awoken by the sound of masked kidnappers entering his home. Holding him at gunpoint, they drag his beloved wife Alicia out of the house with a promise to kill her if he goes to the police. Their demand: betray the company he’s worked for his entire adult life.
They think he’ll do anything to save his wife. But they don’t know that they’re messing with the wrong man. Because Jerome might be a good guy. But betrayal doesn’t come easily to him. And he’s not a man who will go down without a fight.
What’s more, he will hunt the people who’ve taken Alicia to the ends of the earth. And if they’ve hurt even one hair on her head, he’s going to make them pay…
This utterly page-turning, jaw-dropping thriller is perfect for fans of Lee Child, David Baldacci and Mark Dawson.
Jerome Prentice is a good guy. Loyal to a fault, he always stays on the right side of the law.
But everything changes the night he is awoken by the sound of masked kidnappers entering his home. Holding him at gunpoint, they drag his beloved wife Alicia out of the house with a promise to kill her if he goes to the police. Their demand: betray the company he’s worked for his entire adult life.
They think he’ll do anything to save his wife. But they don’t know that they’re messing with the wrong man. Because Jerome might be a good guy. But betrayal doesn’t come easily to him. And he’s not a man who will go down without a fight.
What’s more, he will hunt the people who’ve taken Alicia to the ends of the earth. And if they’ve hurt even one hair on her head, he’s going to make them pay…
This utterly page-turning, jaw-dropping thriller is perfect for fans of Lee Child, David Baldacci and Mark Dawson.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2021
95 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
John Ryder
5 books21 followersJohn Ryder is a former farmworker and joiner. He’s turned his hand to many skills to put food on the table and clothes on his back. A life-long bibliophile, he eventually summoned the courage to try writing himself, and his Grant Fletcher novels have drawn inspiration from authors such as Lee Child, Tom Cain, Zoe Sharp and Matt Hilton. When it comes to future novels, he says he has more ideas than time to write them.
When not writing, John enjoys spending time with his son, reading and socialising with friends. A fanatic supporter of his local football team, he can often be found shouting encouragement to men much younger and fitter than he is.
When not writing, John enjoys spending time with his son, reading and socialising with friends. A fanatic supporter of his local football team, he can often be found shouting encouragement to men much younger and fitter than he is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 4, 2021
*4.5 stars*
How terrifying it must be to be woken up in the early hours of the morning, in the sanctity of your own bedroom, by three masked intruders. That’s what Jerome Prentice faces, and that’s not even the worst of it, they tell him they’re taking his wife Alicia and threatening to kill her unless he does as they say.
Jerome is your ordinary everyday guy, so he can’t even begin to imagine what they want with him. He finds out the next day though. They want him to steal $50 million from Beck Holding, a company that he’s worked for since graduating college. How on earth is he going to pull off such an audacious theft.
This was a terrific plot, executed particularly well, with breathtaking pace. The tech side of it was also extremely well researched, and this author sure can tell a tale. Well written, extremely tense, with vividly drawn characters, this is a story that will draw you in right from the start. One of the most exciting thrillers I’ve read this year.
*Thank you to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
How terrifying it must be to be woken up in the early hours of the morning, in the sanctity of your own bedroom, by three masked intruders. That’s what Jerome Prentice faces, and that’s not even the worst of it, they tell him they’re taking his wife Alicia and threatening to kill her unless he does as they say.
Jerome is your ordinary everyday guy, so he can’t even begin to imagine what they want with him. He finds out the next day though. They want him to steal $50 million from Beck Holding, a company that he’s worked for since graduating college. How on earth is he going to pull off such an audacious theft.
This was a terrific plot, executed particularly well, with breathtaking pace. The tech side of it was also extremely well researched, and this author sure can tell a tale. Well written, extremely tense, with vividly drawn characters, this is a story that will draw you in right from the start. One of the most exciting thrillers I’ve read this year.
*Thank you to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
January 10, 2022
Whoa, that was intense! Action packed and heart-pounding. I felt the adrenaline rush while following the main character's will power and resolve. I was hoping for a version of Bryan Mills to come out after the kidnapping but I fell in love with Jerome's logical and realistic approach to the situation. Even though he was not a fighter, he was able to adapt and use good sense to his advantage. That made his character more convincing.
The bad guys made me so angry I wanted to pull an Evelyn Salt and break them! Ugh! My fists were clenched and I was gritting my teeth 50% of the time.
On the whole, this was a gripping thriller with a decent plot. I was drawn to how the characters were written, even the typical villains were amusing at times. The technical aspect was also commendable and thorough. After reading this, I felt the need to get me some action films to watch.
Cheers to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC!
The bad guys made me so angry I wanted to pull an Evelyn Salt and break them! Ugh! My fists were clenched and I was gritting my teeth 50% of the time.
On the whole, this was a gripping thriller with a decent plot. I was drawn to how the characters were written, even the typical villains were amusing at times. The technical aspect was also commendable and thorough. After reading this, I felt the need to get me some action films to watch.
Cheers to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC!
November 25, 2021
Thank you to John Ryder, and NetGalley, for this ARC in exchange for this honest review
As a huge fan of John Ryders books, I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to read his latest offering. Unfortunately, this book was in 2 distinct sections. It starts off as being right up there with his usual work, but then about halfway through it almost falls over.
This was a slightly different character to Mr Ryders usual. An accountant who even though he was definitely not a fighter, managed to adapt to the situation and use what was around him. But the second part of the story dominated the story, but for me this was the least captivating section.
Scoring this is difficult, whereas the first half was around 6 / 5, the middle bit was 3 /5 end possibly heading for 4 /5. So overall I give it just about 4/ 5. But if I wasn’t such a fan of his previous work might have been a 3 /5.
As a huge fan of John Ryders books, I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to read his latest offering. Unfortunately, this book was in 2 distinct sections. It starts off as being right up there with his usual work, but then about halfway through it almost falls over.
This was a slightly different character to Mr Ryders usual. An accountant who even though he was definitely not a fighter, managed to adapt to the situation and use what was around him. But the second part of the story dominated the story, but for me this was the least captivating section.
Scoring this is difficult, whereas the first half was around 6 / 5, the middle bit was 3 /5 end possibly heading for 4 /5. So overall I give it just about 4/ 5. But if I wasn’t such a fan of his previous work might have been a 3 /5.
June 19, 2024
"The Hostage" begins with a bang.
A gun is pointed at a husband's head and his wife is taken captive.
The husband is told that unless he steals $50 million from his company, his wife will die.
Although the book was fast-paced with an ultra-compelling premise, the storyline quickly became waaay too far-fetched with implausible dialogue.
I listened to the audiobook read by Josh Wichard, who did a fine job with the narration.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2021
Thank you to John Ryder, and NetGalley and the publishers, for this ARC in exchange for this honest review
Jerome Prentice opened his eyes to find himself staring down the barrel of a gun.
You get us what we want. Or your wife dies. And we will make it hurt.”
Jerome Prentice is a good guy. Loyal to a fault, he always stays on the right side of the law.
But everything changes the night he is awoken by the sound of masked kidnappers entering his home. Holding him at gunpoint, they drag his beloved wife Alicia out of the house with a promise to kill her if he goes to the police. Their demand: betray the company he’s worked for his entire adult life.
Jerome Prentice really is one of life's good guys. He is very much the underdog just an average guy fighting to save his wife.
They think he’ll do anything to save his wife. But they don’t know that they’re messing with the wrong man. Because Jerome might be a good guy. But betrayal doesn’t come easily to him. And he’s not a man who will go down without a fight.
What’s more, he will hunt the people who’ve taken Alicia to the ends of the earth. And if they’ve hurt even one hair on her head, he’s going to make them pay…
Why a three star, the first half of the book was better than the second half, it became a little, no quite far fetched, over the top, from normal human beings to super human.
It was good pace, but just seemed to be to go downhill.
Three Stars
Jerome Prentice opened his eyes to find himself staring down the barrel of a gun.
You get us what we want. Or your wife dies. And we will make it hurt.”
Jerome Prentice is a good guy. Loyal to a fault, he always stays on the right side of the law.
But everything changes the night he is awoken by the sound of masked kidnappers entering his home. Holding him at gunpoint, they drag his beloved wife Alicia out of the house with a promise to kill her if he goes to the police. Their demand: betray the company he’s worked for his entire adult life.
Jerome Prentice really is one of life's good guys. He is very much the underdog just an average guy fighting to save his wife.
They think he’ll do anything to save his wife. But they don’t know that they’re messing with the wrong man. Because Jerome might be a good guy. But betrayal doesn’t come easily to him. And he’s not a man who will go down without a fight.
What’s more, he will hunt the people who’ve taken Alicia to the ends of the earth. And if they’ve hurt even one hair on her head, he’s going to make them pay…
Why a three star, the first half of the book was better than the second half, it became a little, no quite far fetched, over the top, from normal human beings to super human.
It was good pace, but just seemed to be to go downhill.
Three Stars
November 25, 2021
Jerome and his wife, Alicia wake up in the middle of the night to find three masked men holding scary looking guns pointed right at them.
Holding him at gunpoint, they take Alicia with them with a promise they will kill her if he goes to the police. He is to do something for them .. and if he doesn't, she will die. They want him to steal $50 million dollars from the accounting business where he works.
Jerome struggles with stealing from his employer .. he's basically a good man, an honest man. But he will do what it takes to keep his wife alive. He promises that he will make them pay if they hurt her in any way.
Being a really good accountant, he knows there are ways to divert money from one place to another. These men want this money sent to 21 different places ... almost impossible to do without getting caught.
It's a conundrum of a thriller/mystery. Character development of this protagonist is well-thought out. He is a strong man with a conscience, high moral standards, not used to violence, but will do whatever it takes. In somewhat alternating chapters, we get a peek at what Alicia is doing ,.... and that's mostly trying to find a way to escape her locked room where her captors have placed her. She's a great foil for her husband ... she's strong, and although she depends on Jerome to find a way to retrieve her, she's not going to be sitting in a corner chewing her fingernails. This is not the first of books I've read by this author. I enjoy his style of writing, the character development he achieves, an intriguing plot with a well paced story line.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction/mystery. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Holding him at gunpoint, they take Alicia with them with a promise they will kill her if he goes to the police. He is to do something for them .. and if he doesn't, she will die. They want him to steal $50 million dollars from the accounting business where he works.
Jerome struggles with stealing from his employer .. he's basically a good man, an honest man. But he will do what it takes to keep his wife alive. He promises that he will make them pay if they hurt her in any way.
Being a really good accountant, he knows there are ways to divert money from one place to another. These men want this money sent to 21 different places ... almost impossible to do without getting caught.
It's a conundrum of a thriller/mystery. Character development of this protagonist is well-thought out. He is a strong man with a conscience, high moral standards, not used to violence, but will do whatever it takes. In somewhat alternating chapters, we get a peek at what Alicia is doing ,.... and that's mostly trying to find a way to escape her locked room where her captors have placed her. She's a great foil for her husband ... she's strong, and although she depends on Jerome to find a way to retrieve her, she's not going to be sitting in a corner chewing her fingernails. This is not the first of books I've read by this author. I enjoy his style of writing, the character development he achieves, an intriguing plot with a well paced story line.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction/mystery. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
November 16, 2021
I loved this book it was so exciting, from the beginning it grabs you and it doesn’t let up all the way through. Twisty, and compelling I throughly enjoyed this book and I feel it would make a really thrilling film. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 14, 2021
The Hostage is a stand-alone action thriller set in New York about a young accountant whose wife has been kidnapped to force him to embezzle a fortune from his employer. I’ve read all of Ryder’s previous thrillers, and most of his Graham Smith books set in the UK too, so knew I was in for a page-turner, but the twist here is that the hero is not some super-skilled former soldier, but an ordinary bloke driven only by his love for his wife.
Jerome Prentice wakes to discover there is a shotgun aimed at him, and two men are about to kidnap his wife, with the threat that is he doesn’t steal $50 million from the giant conglomerate he works for, she will be killed. There’s no way he can let that happen, so this usually law-abiding citizen will do whatever it takes to get her back.
The “mild-mannered ordinary Joe with a very particular set of skills” trope has featured in some great action movies in the last decade or so. In this case, Jerome’s physical skills are limited to what he picked up in high school football and wrestling, he’s never used a gun, and his battle strategy has all been gleaned from the big screen. He doesn’t even have particular computer skills - but fortunately his best friend does. Unfortunately, this meant that the first half of the book had a bit too much about accounting and Jerome making fairly predictable layman mistakes & getting beaten up for it. I did like that we got to see Alicia’s side of things, and in the end it’s their trust and devotion to each other that saves the day. The lovey-doveyness did get a bit much for me at times, but they’re a likeable couple and I was happy enough with the rather predictable denouement.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC. I am posting this honest review voluntarily. The Hostage is published on November 25th.
Jerome Prentice wakes to discover there is a shotgun aimed at him, and two men are about to kidnap his wife, with the threat that is he doesn’t steal $50 million from the giant conglomerate he works for, she will be killed. There’s no way he can let that happen, so this usually law-abiding citizen will do whatever it takes to get her back.
The “mild-mannered ordinary Joe with a very particular set of skills” trope has featured in some great action movies in the last decade or so. In this case, Jerome’s physical skills are limited to what he picked up in high school football and wrestling, he’s never used a gun, and his battle strategy has all been gleaned from the big screen. He doesn’t even have particular computer skills - but fortunately his best friend does. Unfortunately, this meant that the first half of the book had a bit too much about accounting and Jerome making fairly predictable layman mistakes & getting beaten up for it. I did like that we got to see Alicia’s side of things, and in the end it’s their trust and devotion to each other that saves the day. The lovey-doveyness did get a bit much for me at times, but they’re a likeable couple and I was happy enough with the rather predictable denouement.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC. I am posting this honest review voluntarily. The Hostage is published on November 25th.
November 14, 2021
Jerome Prentice opened his eyes to find himself staring down the barrel of a gun.
With this opening sentence the rocket ride that is The Hostage grabs the reader's attention and never lets go. This is a fast-paced thriller about extortion, greed and love with an unlikely protagonist in unassuming accountant Jerome Prentice.
College sweethearts Jerome and Alicia Prentice are still madly in love, happily married and working for the same conglomerate, Beck Holdings. All comes tumbling down when armed, masked gunmen wake them in the middle of the night and take Alicia hostage. To get her back Jerome must redirect $50 million from Beck Holdings, convert it to crypto currency and parcel it out to multiple accounts. All this while circumventing the various governmental and internal accounting controls put in place to stop just such an effort. For upstanding and law abiding Jerome it is never an option not to do as instructed to get Alicia back. What the abductors don't count on is Jerome's resourcefulness and determination to find Alicia before he must break the law and meet their demands. Armed with knowledge derived from watching action movies and playing PlayStation games, Jerome sets out to rescue Alicia and thwart her abductors.
Told from Jerome's and Alicia's points of view, the reader feels Alicia's terror and Jerome's resolve in this cat and mouse thriller. Up against abductors who seem to be one step ahead of him, Jerome's decision making, while sometimes questionable, moves the plot along at a pace that seldom allows the reader to catch their breath. Add in the twists at pivotal points and one comes up with an absorbing, exciting read.
With this opening sentence the rocket ride that is The Hostage grabs the reader's attention and never lets go. This is a fast-paced thriller about extortion, greed and love with an unlikely protagonist in unassuming accountant Jerome Prentice.
College sweethearts Jerome and Alicia Prentice are still madly in love, happily married and working for the same conglomerate, Beck Holdings. All comes tumbling down when armed, masked gunmen wake them in the middle of the night and take Alicia hostage. To get her back Jerome must redirect $50 million from Beck Holdings, convert it to crypto currency and parcel it out to multiple accounts. All this while circumventing the various governmental and internal accounting controls put in place to stop just such an effort. For upstanding and law abiding Jerome it is never an option not to do as instructed to get Alicia back. What the abductors don't count on is Jerome's resourcefulness and determination to find Alicia before he must break the law and meet their demands. Armed with knowledge derived from watching action movies and playing PlayStation games, Jerome sets out to rescue Alicia and thwart her abductors.
Told from Jerome's and Alicia's points of view, the reader feels Alicia's terror and Jerome's resolve in this cat and mouse thriller. Up against abductors who seem to be one step ahead of him, Jerome's decision making, while sometimes questionable, moves the plot along at a pace that seldom allows the reader to catch their breath. Add in the twists at pivotal points and one comes up with an absorbing, exciting read.
October 21, 2021
Jerome Prentice really is one of life's good guys. He is very much the underdog and he took me by surprise at the lengths he goes to to get his wife back. Jerome could be any one of us. He is a good example of how far someone will go to get their loved one back and his strength and determination were admirable.
The storyline had me hooked and the pacing had me racing through to see if Jerome would be able to get his wife back as well as if would see through the hostages demands. It makes for some hair-raising reading where I kept having to remind myself to breath. An adrenaline fuelled thriller which will both excite and chill fans of this genre!
The storyline had me hooked and the pacing had me racing through to see if Jerome would be able to get his wife back as well as if would see through the hostages demands. It makes for some hair-raising reading where I kept having to remind myself to breath. An adrenaline fuelled thriller which will both excite and chill fans of this genre!
November 24, 2021
What would you do if someone kidnapped your spouse? Would you be reckless? Determined? Desperate?
A suspense novel that centered on the husband’s completing a dangerous task and ultimately rescuing his devoted wife.
The story was entertaining but at times a little unbelievable and I only saw the surface of the the main characters. It was fast paced with a satisfying ending. I would give this author another read and recommend for something light and entertaining. I chose to listen to this book on audio and Josh Wichard narrator and was great. This was 8 hours and 7 minutes.
3.5⭐️
Thanks Bookouture Audio via Netgalley.
A suspense novel that centered on the husband’s completing a dangerous task and ultimately rescuing his devoted wife.
The story was entertaining but at times a little unbelievable and I only saw the surface of the the main characters. It was fast paced with a satisfying ending. I would give this author another read and recommend for something light and entertaining. I chose to listen to this book on audio and Josh Wichard narrator and was great. This was 8 hours and 7 minutes.
3.5⭐️
Thanks Bookouture Audio via Netgalley.
November 25, 2021
WOW - waking up with guns in your face
Is the start of this read that keeps up that pace.
An action packed read I didn't want to put down
Any interruptions were met with a frown!
Jerome and Alicia are "ordinary" folk
Until this time when with guns they're woke.
Alicia is taken, Jerome told to wait,
Follow instructions, go to work, don't be late.
Can he rescue and protect her - and if so, how?
Following their instructions seems the way for now.
However, he'll not let them get away at all
He'll make them regret they ever decided on them to call.
This is a total, action-packed thriller,
Definitely another fantastic chiller,
Where Jerome is determined to protect his wife
And to her kidnappers bring plenty of strife.
What a brilliant, fascinating read this proved to be
At least as pulse pounding as it is claimed you'll see
With secrets, betrayal, determination, surprises and more
A superb story you'll agree, I'm sure!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
Is the start of this read that keeps up that pace.
An action packed read I didn't want to put down
Any interruptions were met with a frown!
Jerome and Alicia are "ordinary" folk
Until this time when with guns they're woke.
Alicia is taken, Jerome told to wait,
Follow instructions, go to work, don't be late.
Can he rescue and protect her - and if so, how?
Following their instructions seems the way for now.
However, he'll not let them get away at all
He'll make them regret they ever decided on them to call.
This is a total, action-packed thriller,
Definitely another fantastic chiller,
Where Jerome is determined to protect his wife
And to her kidnappers bring plenty of strife.
What a brilliant, fascinating read this proved to be
At least as pulse pounding as it is claimed you'll see
With secrets, betrayal, determination, surprises and more
A superb story you'll agree, I'm sure!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
November 15, 2021
This one sounds better on paper than it reads. Its not bad per say, its just not that great.
A great set up from the first page - man wakes up with gun pointed at his head, his wife is kidnapped and he has to steal 50 odd million dollars from the company he works for to get her back.
Thats the gist of it.
The first half of the book I enjoyed more than the second half. It focuses on how the money could be stolen, how he might get his wife back or find out where she is etc.
The second half is more about trying to escape capture, which was a lot less interesting and felt overly long in the context of the book.
There is the whole suspension of disbelief thing going on here, along with a rather cliched reluctant/unlikely hero in our main protagonist, which is all fine if you are being entertained throughout but I just felt the whole "escape capture" thing ended up dominating the book and was the least interesting part for me.
A decent if unremarkable effort. Felt longer than it was to me mainly due to the reasons above.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
A great set up from the first page - man wakes up with gun pointed at his head, his wife is kidnapped and he has to steal 50 odd million dollars from the company he works for to get her back.
Thats the gist of it.
The first half of the book I enjoyed more than the second half. It focuses on how the money could be stolen, how he might get his wife back or find out where she is etc.
The second half is more about trying to escape capture, which was a lot less interesting and felt overly long in the context of the book.
There is the whole suspension of disbelief thing going on here, along with a rather cliched reluctant/unlikely hero in our main protagonist, which is all fine if you are being entertained throughout but I just felt the whole "escape capture" thing ended up dominating the book and was the least interesting part for me.
A decent if unremarkable effort. Felt longer than it was to me mainly due to the reasons above.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
December 21, 2021
New York accountant Jerome Prentice’s breath catches when he awakens one night with a gun in his face, another trained on his adored wife, Alicia. The gunmen snatch Alicia and it quickly becomes clear the hostage takers don’t intend to return her until Jerome embezzles fifty million dollars from his employers.
Rather than go to the police, Jerome jumps through hoops to obey the kidnappers’ orders, which results in committing deplorable acts he never thought himself capable. But upon discovering Alicia’s whereabouts, he gives into an overwhelming urge to rescue her despite the obvious risk.
While there’s plenty of action for diehard suspense fans, some may find Ryder’s treatment of parts of those sequences clumsily executed. Likewise, romance fans may find the dialogue between Jerome and Alicia somewhat stilted. Regardless, overall the novel is entertaining, the protagonist cheer-worthy, and I look forward to reading other titles by this author. Much appreciation to NetGalley, Bookouture, and John Ryder for the ARC.
Rather than go to the police, Jerome jumps through hoops to obey the kidnappers’ orders, which results in committing deplorable acts he never thought himself capable. But upon discovering Alicia’s whereabouts, he gives into an overwhelming urge to rescue her despite the obvious risk.
While there’s plenty of action for diehard suspense fans, some may find Ryder’s treatment of parts of those sequences clumsily executed. Likewise, romance fans may find the dialogue between Jerome and Alicia somewhat stilted. Regardless, overall the novel is entertaining, the protagonist cheer-worthy, and I look forward to reading other titles by this author. Much appreciation to NetGalley, Bookouture, and John Ryder for the ARC.
November 14, 2021
Jerome and Alicia are perfect, sweetharts from high school and also working for the same company. One day they arw not perfect anymore, they are in an nightmare that is so crazy. Alicia is kidnapped adn Jerome is asked to steel from the company. But again this is not the end, Jerome is really determinated to find his better half. A lot of action, gripping listening and great conclusion. Hope you like it.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for this advanced listening.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for this advanced listening.
October 22, 2021
The Hostage, by John Ryder, begins with Jerome Prentice waking up to three masked intruders pointing guns at him. They inform Jerome they are kidnapping his wife Alecia and in order to save her he must meet their demands. Jerome, an accountant, and Alecia, a lawyer, both work for the same multinational conglomerate and the kidnappers want Jerome to steal $50 million from said conglomerate.
Jerome doesn't know how he's going to meet their demands but he does know there is nothing he will not do to save Alecia.
I discovered John Ryder earlier this year and instantly became a fan. His previous books are action packed thrillers and there is an abundance of violence. The Hostage has very little bloodshed but Ryder ratchets up the tension with each turn of the page . It's a complete 180 from what he's written previously but it's just as good.
The Hostage is essentially a love story. Jerome, a regular guy with no special skills outside of accounting, will stop at nothing to rescue Alecia.
The Hostage reaffirms my opinion that Ryder is criminally underrated. Even though it's unlike his previous books, he pulls it off with a plumb. Ryder should absolutely be on your to-read list.
Thank you to John Ryder, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of The Hostage.
Jerome doesn't know how he's going to meet their demands but he does know there is nothing he will not do to save Alecia.
I discovered John Ryder earlier this year and instantly became a fan. His previous books are action packed thrillers and there is an abundance of violence. The Hostage has very little bloodshed but Ryder ratchets up the tension with each turn of the page . It's a complete 180 from what he's written previously but it's just as good.
The Hostage is essentially a love story. Jerome, a regular guy with no special skills outside of accounting, will stop at nothing to rescue Alecia.
The Hostage reaffirms my opinion that Ryder is criminally underrated. Even though it's unlike his previous books, he pulls it off with a plumb. Ryder should absolutely be on your to-read list.
Thank you to John Ryder, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of The Hostage.
November 26, 2021
If desperate times call for desperate measures, then I'm free to act as desperately as I wish. These words by Shakespeare sum up this thrilling book by John Ryder. Jerome Prentice and his wife Alicia were accosted. However, they let Jerome go and kept Alicia. In fact, they kept her in stark fear. Why did they let Jerome go?
The kidnappers are certain of one thing. Jerome will go to the ends of the earth to get Alicia back. They were right. Jerome may have been a law-abiding citizen his entire life, but that changes when Alicia was taken right before his eyes.
The kidnapper's demands are murky, leading Jerome down many a dark path while he strives to get Alicia back safely. But, he follows the instructions the best he can until he has had enough. He will get Alicia back - and by any means necessary. Actually, from the outset, this is exactly what the kidnappers told Alicia. They said to her: "You sell your husband short. He's not one hundred percent the man you think he is. You may think he's lily-white, but his hands are far dirtier than you think. Than perhaps even he realizes. You and he have been deliberately selected."
Alicia is terrified. Jerome is terrified. Who are the kidnappers and what do they want? What do they mean when they say that Jerome is not the man Alicia thinks he is? What do they have in mind and why is it that this couple is part of their nefarious plans?
What a thrilling book! Imagine being woken from a deep sleep. Guns pointed at you. In this case, a gun pointed at Jerome. A gun pointed at Alicia. Instructions given at the outset, and that included no police involvement. Jerome became a desperate man. A man desperate to save his wife. A man desperate enough to take any action imagined or unimagined as long as it meant one day soon having Alicia in his arms again.
While this story was fast-paced with an uncertain conclusion, one thing rang clear - Jerome and Alicia loved each other beyond words - and it was that love that gave them strength as they found their way back to one another. Factor in their strong bond and the actions Jerome took, and this exciting story came to a thrilling conclusion.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The kidnappers are certain of one thing. Jerome will go to the ends of the earth to get Alicia back. They were right. Jerome may have been a law-abiding citizen his entire life, but that changes when Alicia was taken right before his eyes.
The kidnapper's demands are murky, leading Jerome down many a dark path while he strives to get Alicia back safely. But, he follows the instructions the best he can until he has had enough. He will get Alicia back - and by any means necessary. Actually, from the outset, this is exactly what the kidnappers told Alicia. They said to her: "You sell your husband short. He's not one hundred percent the man you think he is. You may think he's lily-white, but his hands are far dirtier than you think. Than perhaps even he realizes. You and he have been deliberately selected."
Alicia is terrified. Jerome is terrified. Who are the kidnappers and what do they want? What do they mean when they say that Jerome is not the man Alicia thinks he is? What do they have in mind and why is it that this couple is part of their nefarious plans?
What a thrilling book! Imagine being woken from a deep sleep. Guns pointed at you. In this case, a gun pointed at Jerome. A gun pointed at Alicia. Instructions given at the outset, and that included no police involvement. Jerome became a desperate man. A man desperate to save his wife. A man desperate enough to take any action imagined or unimagined as long as it meant one day soon having Alicia in his arms again.
While this story was fast-paced with an uncertain conclusion, one thing rang clear - Jerome and Alicia loved each other beyond words - and it was that love that gave them strength as they found their way back to one another. Factor in their strong bond and the actions Jerome took, and this exciting story came to a thrilling conclusion.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 8, 2021
The Hostage by John Ryder
Powerful first paragraph that gripped and made me wonder just what Jerome Prentice would do to save his wife. Would he steal for her? Kill for her? Just what laws would he be willing to break to keep her safe?
What I liked:
* Jerome: loving husband, intelligent, invested at work, professional, methodical, detail oriented, and more capable than he knows.
* Alicia: Jerome’s wife, lawyer, works for the same company as Jerome, not cowed, willing to do what it takes.
* Ed: Jerome’s best friend, computer guru, called in to help out when Jerome found himself in a tight place.
* The idea for the plot
* The twist at the end
* Finding out who was beHhind the kidnapping and pressure put on Jerome
* That the hero and his wife came out okay at the end of the story
What I didn’t like:
* The bad guys and what they were trying to do
* That I couldn’t invest myself in the nitty gritty details of the story...the financial stuff went over my head and held little interest for me...so the book in that section dragged
* I felt it was not as believable as it could have been and had some difficulty investing in the characters and outcome as a result
Did I enjoy this book? It was okay but I enjoyed the author’s previous books read much more
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
Powerful first paragraph that gripped and made me wonder just what Jerome Prentice would do to save his wife. Would he steal for her? Kill for her? Just what laws would he be willing to break to keep her safe?
What I liked:
* Jerome: loving husband, intelligent, invested at work, professional, methodical, detail oriented, and more capable than he knows.
* Alicia: Jerome’s wife, lawyer, works for the same company as Jerome, not cowed, willing to do what it takes.
* Ed: Jerome’s best friend, computer guru, called in to help out when Jerome found himself in a tight place.
* The idea for the plot
* The twist at the end
* Finding out who was beHhind the kidnapping and pressure put on Jerome
* That the hero and his wife came out okay at the end of the story
What I didn’t like:
* The bad guys and what they were trying to do
* That I couldn’t invest myself in the nitty gritty details of the story...the financial stuff went over my head and held little interest for me...so the book in that section dragged
* I felt it was not as believable as it could have been and had some difficulty investing in the characters and outcome as a result
Did I enjoy this book? It was okay but I enjoyed the author’s previous books read much more
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
December 1, 2021
' The Hostage' by John Ryder was a thrilling ride for sure. This is the first book that I have read by this author and the author's work definitely goes on my list of To be read.
Jerome and Alicia are a loving married couple working in the same company, ' Beck Holdings'. One night they are woken up from their bed and Alicia is kidnapped with instructions to Jerome to steal 50 million dollars from the company account.
Jerome is known to be a very conscientious and honest accountant. Would he go against his innate nature of honesty to steal for his wife's life? Read the book and know what he decides to do.
It's been a long time since I read a story of this kind. It was almost a how journey rather than a who why or how journey and boy does the journey keep you on your toes? The story is written well with lots of suspense. For me I felt that it got a bit dragged in between but to all those who like technicalities of chases would enjoy it.
I liked and enjoyed the book. If you love to read the how's and get a glimpse into the hard core chases n fights then this book is for you.
I thank Bookouture and Netgalley for approving my request to read this book and all opinions expressed are solely mine.
Jerome and Alicia are a loving married couple working in the same company, ' Beck Holdings'. One night they are woken up from their bed and Alicia is kidnapped with instructions to Jerome to steal 50 million dollars from the company account.
Jerome is known to be a very conscientious and honest accountant. Would he go against his innate nature of honesty to steal for his wife's life? Read the book and know what he decides to do.
It's been a long time since I read a story of this kind. It was almost a how journey rather than a who why or how journey and boy does the journey keep you on your toes? The story is written well with lots of suspense. For me I felt that it got a bit dragged in between but to all those who like technicalities of chases would enjoy it.
I liked and enjoyed the book. If you love to read the how's and get a glimpse into the hard core chases n fights then this book is for you.
I thank Bookouture and Netgalley for approving my request to read this book and all opinions expressed are solely mine.
October 21, 2021
What Would Job Do? For those unfamiliar with the Biblical story of Job, Job was the most honorable man on Earth. One day, God and Satan decided to test Job to see if he would ever turn his back on God, in any situation. And… that is where the tie to this book comes in. Meet Jerome. Jerome is a stand-up guy that generally tries to help people where he can and is known to all – certainly to his superiors at work – as an absolutely honest man. So what is this man going to do when he wakes up to guns pointed at himself and his wife, and his wife kidnapped to ensure his compliance with the scheme of the kidnappers? Well… you’re going to have to read this explosive yet realistic (within reason, this *is* fiction) tale to find out. Very well crafted, this book does a tremendous job of keeping you in the heads of both Jerome and his wife, Alicia, as they try to stay alive long enough to figure a way out of this mess. This is one of those books that will keep you guessing and racing to the end… even as it has a few unconventional elements that might make you think there is no possible way the author can keep the tale going that much longer. He does, and you’ll be glad he does. Very much recommended.
November 23, 2021
**audiobook version**
Narrator 5 stars
Awesome voice. Did a fantastic job with the characters
Story 3 stars
Interesting plot with likeable characters
Narrator 5 stars
Awesome voice. Did a fantastic job with the characters
Story 3 stars
Interesting plot with likeable characters
December 29, 2021
Addictive series and characters
November 18, 2021
Great book, easy to listen to. Very good pace and great characters, gripping story.
Hightly recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Hightly recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2021
I listened to the audio production of this book and I am so glad I did. The tension and sense of danger for the characters were portrayed so well by the narrator. I found the book difficult to put down with plenty of twists and a lot of drama.
I liked that the main characters were ordinary people caught up in extraordinary circumstances. They weren't larger than life heroes but they did what they had to in order to survive. I liked Alicia. She wasn't portrayed as a dumb damsel in distress waiting to be rescued. She was able to fight her corner when the occasion allowed for it.
This was an action-packed and exciting thriller. It made for great listening.
I liked that the main characters were ordinary people caught up in extraordinary circumstances. They weren't larger than life heroes but they did what they had to in order to survive. I liked Alicia. She wasn't portrayed as a dumb damsel in distress waiting to be rescued. She was able to fight her corner when the occasion allowed for it.
This was an action-packed and exciting thriller. It made for great listening.
December 16, 2021
The chapters of this action packed thrill ride alternate between the perspectives of Jerome Prentiss and his wife Alicia. The story opens with Jerome waking in the early hours of the morning to discover that two masked individuals have broken into his house and one of the intruders was waving a gun in Jerome's face. He is forced to watch in horror as the two intruders kidnap Alicia, telling Jerome to wait for further instructions and that there will be consequences if he dares to contact the police. Jerome was one of life's good guys but the people behind Alicia's abduction had obviously forgotten that you should always watch out for the quiet ones. They had seriously underestimated both of their victims guts,tenacity and determination to survive. Whilst Jerome channelled his inner Liam Neeson and began a search for his beloved wife, Alicia was doing everything in her power to stay strong and have faith that her husband would find a way to rescue her, not only from her kidnappers but also from the numerous spiders who had made their homes in the dark corners and crevices of the room where she was being held captive.
But why had the seemingly innocent and ordinary couple been targeted by their tormentors? Who were the kidnappers and what was their endgame? As all thriller readers know,characters are very often not who they appear to be, Jeremy and Alicia came across as a apparently devoted couple but was there more to one or both of them than met the eye?
I love reading thrillers in which ordinary people find themselves caught up in situations which push them to their limits and are packed full of action, danger and intrigue. If you are like me and enjoy reading books by author's such as Simon Kernick, T.M.Logan and Richard Parker then I guarantee that you will love The Hostage as much as I did. It's a fast paced, breath taking roller coaster ride that hooks you in from the first page and keeps you captivated as the story rockets along through the various plot twists and turns. The story doesn't have a very large cast of characters but the individuals who do appear are realistic and believable. This is the first book that I have read that was written by this author and it most definitely will not be my last. A gripping, addictive thriller and very very highly recommended.
But why had the seemingly innocent and ordinary couple been targeted by their tormentors? Who were the kidnappers and what was their endgame? As all thriller readers know,characters are very often not who they appear to be, Jeremy and Alicia came across as a apparently devoted couple but was there more to one or both of them than met the eye?
I love reading thrillers in which ordinary people find themselves caught up in situations which push them to their limits and are packed full of action, danger and intrigue. If you are like me and enjoy reading books by author's such as Simon Kernick, T.M.Logan and Richard Parker then I guarantee that you will love The Hostage as much as I did. It's a fast paced, breath taking roller coaster ride that hooks you in from the first page and keeps you captivated as the story rockets along through the various plot twists and turns. The story doesn't have a very large cast of characters but the individuals who do appear are realistic and believable. This is the first book that I have read that was written by this author and it most definitely will not be my last. A gripping, addictive thriller and very very highly recommended.
November 13, 2021
Review to come as part of blog tour
October 20, 2021
My thoughts about John Ryder’s The Hostage springs you into action that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the end. The Hostage is a rousing, straight-ahead chase thriller. The hero, and the book, takes no prisoners as he frantically hunts down the men who kidnapped his wife. Author John Ryder delivers yet another tensed masterpiece, that takes your breath away. The Hostage is an absolute fast moving thrilling ride,with great pace and action thrills it will blow your mind. The story of The Hostage begins with the introduction of the lead character Jerome Prentice is a good guy. Loyal to a fault, he always stays on the right side of the law.But everything changes the night he is awoken by the sound of masked kidnappers entering his home. Holding him at gunpoint, they drag his beloved wife Alicia out of the house with a promise to kill her if he goes to the police. Their demand: betray the company he’s worked for his entire adult life.They think he’ll do anything to save his wife. But they don’t know that they’re messing with the wrong man. Because Jerome might be a good guy. But betrayal doesn’t come easily to him. And he’s not a man who will go down without a fight.What’s more, he will hunt the people who’ve taken Alicia to the ends of the earth. And if they’ve hurt even one hair on her head, he’s going to make them pay. Hats off to Author John Ryder,who I’ve been a fan of his writing since,I’ve read his first book First Shot,yet again he works his magic in his powerful writing which is incredible. John Ryder’s The Hostage is high speed super crime thriller make you sit on the edge of the seat.The book will make your eyes wider every frame/ page.I would like to say thank you to Author John Ryder, and Publishers Bookouture and netgally,for kindly giving me a chance to read and review this spectacular thriller that blows your mind.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐💥💥💥💥💥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
November 25, 2021
THE HOSTAGE by John Ryder starts intensely when Jerome Prentice wakes to find a gun pointed at him. He is told he has been specially chosen to perform a task, and to ensure Jerome does exactly as directed, his wife, Alicia, is taken captive. His task: steal $50 million dollars from the company he works for or Alicia will die.
Jerome’s mind immediately starts thinking about his options. Should he ignore the threats and contact the police? Who of his friends can help? Is he capable of stealing that amount and keeping it hidden long enough for Alicia to be released? Will Alicia even be released? There are plenty of questions, but no answers from be because in this case, that equals spoilers.
The book is split into two parts: the first part focuses more on the ‘brainy’ side, where Jerome is thinking of how he might successfully pilfer the company coffers. It’s an interesting look at the real checks and balances companies use to stop embezzlement. The second part is more action focused as Jerome, our unlikely hero, decides that he can’t leave Alicia to an unknown fate and tries to find where she is being held.
The story takes place over a short timeframe, and Ryder does well in amplifying the urgency of the situation and both Jerome’s and Alicia’s desperation. There are some twists along the way but nothing that I would consider shocking.
Readers will be required to suspend belief at times, but there’s enough grounding in reality to make the story acceptable. It’s an entertaining read that doesn’t ask a lot of readers beyond going along for a wild ride.
Review copy courtesy of Netgalley and Bookouture
Jerome’s mind immediately starts thinking about his options. Should he ignore the threats and contact the police? Who of his friends can help? Is he capable of stealing that amount and keeping it hidden long enough for Alicia to be released? Will Alicia even be released? There are plenty of questions, but no answers from be because in this case, that equals spoilers.
The book is split into two parts: the first part focuses more on the ‘brainy’ side, where Jerome is thinking of how he might successfully pilfer the company coffers. It’s an interesting look at the real checks and balances companies use to stop embezzlement. The second part is more action focused as Jerome, our unlikely hero, decides that he can’t leave Alicia to an unknown fate and tries to find where she is being held.
The story takes place over a short timeframe, and Ryder does well in amplifying the urgency of the situation and both Jerome’s and Alicia’s desperation. There are some twists along the way but nothing that I would consider shocking.
Readers will be required to suspend belief at times, but there’s enough grounding in reality to make the story acceptable. It’s an entertaining read that doesn’t ask a lot of readers beyond going along for a wild ride.
Review copy courtesy of Netgalley and Bookouture
December 5, 2021
Jerome and Alicia are law-abiding citizens of New York, hard working and devoted to each other…. Until one night Alicia is kidnapped, forcing Jerome to bend his moral code and do whatever it takes to get his beloved back.
The rollercoaster of this pickle (understatement of the year) that he finds himself in really pushes Jerome to his limits, risking everything to do the kidnappers’ biding. What a man going from mild mannered accountant to criminal mastermind so quickly! Amazing what can happen when your hand is forced.
But I didn’t just get to follow Jerome around trying to get his wife back. I spent time with poor Alicia. Ripped from her bed in the dead of night in nothing more than some silky nightwear and a sleaze ball on site making sure she stayed out and making her feel extremely uncomfortable. I feared for Alicia more and more the longer she’s held, especially with her roommates 🕷🕷 *shudder*
The Hostage is one helluva read that made me catch my breath several times and I didn’t realise I was holding it as the story hit its climax. Ryder’s second standalone transported me into the Prentices’ predicament and got me rooting for this loved up couple right from the off. I didn’t want Jerome to be stripped of all he stands for and I was desperate for the kidnappers to be caught and unmasked. Action packed with tension galore. Loved it!
The rollercoaster of this pickle (understatement of the year) that he finds himself in really pushes Jerome to his limits, risking everything to do the kidnappers’ biding. What a man going from mild mannered accountant to criminal mastermind so quickly! Amazing what can happen when your hand is forced.
But I didn’t just get to follow Jerome around trying to get his wife back. I spent time with poor Alicia. Ripped from her bed in the dead of night in nothing more than some silky nightwear and a sleaze ball on site making sure she stayed out and making her feel extremely uncomfortable. I feared for Alicia more and more the longer she’s held, especially with her roommates 🕷🕷 *shudder*
The Hostage is one helluva read that made me catch my breath several times and I didn’t realise I was holding it as the story hit its climax. Ryder’s second standalone transported me into the Prentices’ predicament and got me rooting for this loved up couple right from the off. I didn’t want Jerome to be stripped of all he stands for and I was desperate for the kidnappers to be caught and unmasked. Action packed with tension galore. Loved it!
November 22, 2021
The hostage,the new book by John Ryder, is a gripping read that leaves you unable to put it down!
Imagine the movie Taken except Liam neeson is actually an accountant! Jerome is an ordinary guy with a good job married to a women who also has a good job in the same company. They both live a very ordinary life. Until one night where they are held at gunpoint in their bed and Alicia is taken hostage.
John and Alicia love each other unconditionally and would each do anything to save the other...even if it means doing something that could get them arrested or killed.
This is the first John Ryder book I've read and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it! I love a good suspense read and this didn't disappoint! I was hooked from the first few pages. Although John and Alicias love is a bit sickening to read at times it completely makes this story what it is.
I listened to the audiobook on 1.25 the quality of the recording was very good and the narrator did an excellent job at altering voice to fit each character.
If you love a good suspense/ thriller then you should check out this book which is released 25th November 2021!
Thanks to netgalley and John Ryder for the audiobook version of this in return of an honest review.
Imagine the movie Taken except Liam neeson is actually an accountant! Jerome is an ordinary guy with a good job married to a women who also has a good job in the same company. They both live a very ordinary life. Until one night where they are held at gunpoint in their bed and Alicia is taken hostage.
John and Alicia love each other unconditionally and would each do anything to save the other...even if it means doing something that could get them arrested or killed.
This is the first John Ryder book I've read and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it! I love a good suspense read and this didn't disappoint! I was hooked from the first few pages. Although John and Alicias love is a bit sickening to read at times it completely makes this story what it is.
I listened to the audiobook on 1.25 the quality of the recording was very good and the narrator did an excellent job at altering voice to fit each character.
If you love a good suspense/ thriller then you should check out this book which is released 25th November 2021!
Thanks to netgalley and John Ryder for the audiobook version of this in return of an honest review.
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