House of War

Having read and enjoyed each of the preceding Ben Hope stories, I was thoroughly looking forward to reading House of War, but was sadly disappointed on finishing the story. In this tale, Ben becomes involved in trying to return a mobile to a lady he literally bumps into. The act of kindness turns into the tale, but there's a huge chunk of explanation, with no inner thoughts, no conversation even with himself to give it energy. There's also a new "action" from Ben, opening a door using his knuckle, so as not to leave a fingerprint - never recall having this happen before, perhaps the author's just thought this one up. The story moves on, but not the usual fast-paced Ben Hope action packed speed. It involves a number of elements which are more than predictable, not something I'm used to with Mariani's writing. Usually it's more original. Then comes a liaison with A.N.Other and the realms of counter-intelligence agencies become involved. The story limps along, until an ambush, creating a bit of normal Ben Hope luck and sharp shooting. It does pick up pace then, until the highly predictable ending - No, not one of Mariani's finest works. The introduction to the next book, does look more promising even from the first Prologue and Chapter... I suppose everyone's entitled to an off - day

SCOTT IS WITHOUT DOUBT ONE OF MY MOST FAVOURITE AUTHORS, IF YOU LIKE SAS MYSTERIES WITH UNEXPECTEDTWISTS, TURNS, PLOTS ETC. THEN YOU WILL LOVE THESE BOOKS. I'VE READ THEM ALL AND AM NEVER DISAPPOINTED AND I JUST LOVE BEN HOPE!! AM WAITING FOR MY NEXT ORDER IN MAY 2020!

What a disappointment! The plot seems to have been copied from all sorts of television series right through to the last few pages. And the rants against Islam are prolonged and borderline extremist. Come on Scott, you're better than this.

Another superb, fast action novel in the Ben Hope series, thoroughly enjoyed and finished very quickly!

Another great book