Review of Dead of Winter

[Priya Murugesan]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Dead of Winter" by james meenagh.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Dead of Winter by James Meenagh is the third book in the Nick Parker series. This fast-paced action thriller continues Nick Parker's journey. Previously a legendary assassin for the military for ten years, Nick had experienced a change of heart and had left his life as a killer behind. Struggling to adapt to a normal life, he had first worked in law enforcement, which didn't suit him, and has now become a private investigator. At the beginning of the story, Parker is working to attract clients for his new business. Although he mostly has low-paying clients and often doesn't charge them, he finds joy in helping those in need. Also, he feels at peace without the constant threat of being hunted. However, his quiet life is about to change when Jane Morning Dove, a feisty Kootenai woman he is dating, asks for his help in finding a missing person. Mabel Swiftwater, a close friend of Jane's mother, is frantic with worry about her son, Ricky Swiftwater, who has been missing for three days. When Nick agrees to assist, he sets out for the Flathead Indian Reservation to investigate. As he delves deeper into the case, it quickly escalates into something more dangerous than he had anticipated. Parker uncovers a drug ring that operates with the complicity of local police. Furious about the corruption and the situation, he is determined to dismantle the drug cartel with the help of Coop, his German Shepherd, and his best friend John, a Native American. Thus begins a tense cat-and-mouse game, forcing Parker back into the mindset of a trained killer. Will he succeed in this perilous mission? What fate awaits the dangerous drug cartel? Read the book to find out more.

Firstly, I want to express how much I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It’s rare to find a combination of action, romance, thriller, and humor, but this book nails it. The author captivated me from the very first chapter, making it difficult to put the book down. The pacing was excellent, and I never felt bored at any point. I loved the author's writing style, which was both comprehensible and engaging, drawing me into the world of Nick Parker. The author’s vivid descriptions transported me to the reservation, and I could practically feel the bone-chilling cold of the snowstorm as I read. The characterization was outstanding, with characters lingering in my memory long after I finished reading. I particularly loved Nick Parker, who had transformed from a trained assassin into a man with a soft heart. His kindness and empathy shine throughout the book, and I found that very admirable. It’s clear how he works to overcome his troubled past and find inner peace. The humor sprinkled throughout the book made me smile and even laugh at times. I admired the lasting friendship between Parker and John, and I must mention Coop, a big German shepherd. He is Parker's companion and, at many times, his savior. As a dog lover, my heart warmed at the bond between Parker and Coop, and I enjoyed reading their interactions. Many of the dialogues were humorous, and I especially loved Parker's funny banter with John and TJ. The action scenes were vibrant and filled with energy, which I really enjoyed. Some scenes were emotionally charged, while others were nail-biting. Towards the end, the book was filled with tense moments.

The story is set in Montana during winter, which the book cover reflects well. While I think the cover is good, I feel it could be improved by incorporating some action elements—though that’s just my personal opinion. Readers should be aware that the book contains several profane words and some adult content, although nothing explicit. I noticed only two errors. So, the editing overall is quite good. Although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. While reading, I didn't feel that anything was missing from a previous story, and I could easily follow the main characters’ backgrounds without confusion.

Reading this book felt like an adrenaline-filled roller coaster ride, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I'm looking forward to exploring the other books in the series and learning more about Nick Parker. I believe this book would make a great movie, and I would love to see the characters brought to life on screen. Since there is nothing I disliked about this book, I would happily rate it 5 out of 5 stars. Readers who love fast-paced action thrillers infused with humor and romance are in for a treat and will definitely enjoy this book.

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Dead of Winter
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[Kristin Paolantonio]

Sounds great! Right away, I thought - I wished it was a movie, too! Your review made me want to read it. I like a book like this. Excellent review. Thanks for sharing it can be read without reading the others first.

[Seetha E]

Wow, it is like Nick Parker was destined to be in the thick of challenging events. Switching from being a military assassin, a law enforcement officer, and a private investigator, and then finding himself right amidst a perilous mission involving a drug cartel, exactly the kind of life that he wanted to end.
After reading your review, I have added this book to my reading list. Thank you for an entertaining review, Priya!

[Lene Lena]

I’m glad you enjoyed “Dead of Winter” and Nick Parker’s evolution from assassin to private investigator. His journey reflects the struggles of adapting to a new life while still wanting to help others. I appreciate your thoughts on the characters and plot!

[Priya Murugesan]

Sounds great! Right away, I thought - I wished it was a movie, too! Your review made me want to read it. I like a book like this. Excellent review. Thanks for sharing it can be read without reading the others first.

Thanks!

[Priya Murugesan]

Wow, it is like Nick Parker was destined to be in the thick of challenging events. Switching from being a military assassin, a law enforcement officer, and a private investigator, and then finding himself right amidst a perilous mission involving a drug cartel, exactly the kind of life that he wanted to end.
After reading your review, I have added this book to my reading list. Thank you for an entertaining review, Priya!

Hope you love the book!

[Priya Murugesan]

I’m glad you enjoyed “Dead of Winter” and Nick Parker’s evolution from assassin to private investigator. His journey reflects the struggles of adapting to a new life while still wanting to help others. I appreciate your thoughts on the characters and plot!

Thank you!

[Gerry Steen]

Nick Parker, his friend, John, and Nick's dog, Coop are a trio to be reckoned with. Your review has me intrigued. I love a good action thriller. I am adding Dead of Winter to my bookshelves. Thank you.

[Priya Murugesan]

Nick Parker, his friend, John, and Nick's dog, Coop are a trio to be reckoned with. Your review has me intrigued. I love a good action thriller. I am adding Dead of Winter to my bookshelves. Thank you.

Hope you love it, Gerry!

[Amy Luman]

If it weren’t for being in the middle of a series, this seems to be right up my alley. I’m glad that you enjoyed this, though, and when I get the time, it sounds like a good series for me. Thanks!

[Chi Chiu Michael Mak]

The 'killer with a heart' type of main character never gets old. Nick is easy to root for. I also like how the bone-chilling winter matches well with the thriller vibe of this book. Can't wait to read it!

[Priya Murugesan]

If it weren’t for being in the middle of a series, this seems to be right up my alley. I’m glad that you enjoyed this, though, and when I get the time, it sounds like a good series for me. Thanks!

It works as a stand-alone book, Amy! So, give it a try!

[Priya Murugesan]

The 'killer with a heart' type of main character never gets old. Nick is easy to root for. I also like how the bone-chilling winter matches well with the thriller vibe of this book. Can't wait to read it!

Hope you enjoy it! Thanks for reading my review!

[Anu Anand]

Your review definitely makes me want to read this book! The mix of action, humor, and character depth sounds fantastic, and Nick Parker seems like such an interesting protagonist with a unique backstory. Thanks for sharing this!

[Priya Murugesan]

Your review definitely makes me want to read this book! The mix of action, humor, and character depth sounds fantastic, and Nick Parker seems like such an interesting protagonist with a unique backstory. Thanks for sharing this!

Thanks, Anu! Hope you enjoy the book!