Heart wrenching and heart stopping action. Quit reading this type of story many years ago and switched to cozy mysteries. A definite change of pace. Not certain I was going to complete the book when I started but then got caught up in it and stayed up past my bedtime to finish it. I understand why it was made into a movie. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

A heartwrenching thriller. At the start of The Marksman, retired Marine, Jim, is struggling to keep his Arizona farm afloat after the loss of his loving wife Christine. Meanwhile, across the border, a woman named Rosa and her son Miguel are forced to run from the cartel. Rosa has a bag of the cartel's money, and they will happily kill to get it back. As they cross the border onto Jim's land, he is forced to intervene, putting his skill as a sniper to good use when the cartel shows up. Unfortunately, he is too late to save Rosa. As she lies dying, Jim promises to get Miguel to his aunt in Chicago. But the journey won't be an easy one. The cartel is hot on their heels, and they have eyes everywhere.

This was a wild ride. A lot of action, and a lot of heart. Both Jim and Miguel have to deal with tragic losses, and are able to help each other along the way. It was nice to watch them connect throughout their journey. I also enjoyed the connection between Jim and his stepdaughter, Sarah, a Border Patrol agent. And Jackson.. oh my heart. Such a good dog! I'd be interested in seeing the Netflix film, though as much as I cried while reading this novel adaptation, I'm not sure I'm prepared to watch a live action version yet. There's a ton of high stakes action and a lot of emotion in this thriller. Would recommend

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.