Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Stray Bullets: Ian Kelly Book 1 by Robert James is a pulse-pounding thriller that introduces readers to Ian Kelly, a man leading a double life as a covert operative for a secret government program. This debut novel in the Ian Kelly series is a gripping tale of espionage, family secrets, and relentless action.

The story follows Ian Kelly, who was plucked from the foster care system at a young age due to his unique personality profile and trained to eliminate threats to national security. Now, with two grown children who are starting to ask too questions, Ian is torn between his dangerous profession and his responsibilities as a father. His latest mission takes him to Dubai, where he must investigate a wealthy playboy suspected of dealing weapons. Meanwhile, back home, his son Brandon is delving into the unsolved murder of his mother, a case the police have dismissed as gang-related crossfire. 

Robert James crafts a fast-paced narrative filled with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is meticulously constructed, blending elements of spy fiction with a deeply personal story of a father trying to protect his family. The dual timelines of Ian’s mission in Dubai and Brandon’s investigation back home create a compelling tension that drives the story forward.

Ian Kelly is a complex protagonist, balancing his lethal skills with his love for his children. His internal struggle and the moral ambiguities of his work add depth to his character, making him both relatable and intriguing. Brandon’s determination to uncover the truth about his mother’s death adds an emotional layer to the story, highlighting the impact of Ian’s secret life on his family.

James’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the high-stakes world of espionage with vivid detail. The action scenes are particularly well-executed, providing a cinematic quality to the narrative. The book’s exploration of themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of secrecy adds a thought-provoking dimension to the thriller.

Stray Bullets is a must-read for fans of espionage thrillers and action-packed narratives.

Stray Bullets by Robert James had me hooked from the start! I really enjoyed the character development. In this book, you follow an assassin (Ian) through a thrilling and dangerous overseas mission as his family is experiencing their own turmoil back in the US. Ian’s family doesn’t know who he really is, but his past begins to be dug up in this suspenseful thriller. This puts Ian and him family in jeopardy. Stray Bullets is the first book in the series, which is important to note going into reading. I, otherwise, would not have been satisfied with the ending. I look forward to reading the next one! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Free ARC from Net Galley

An interesting thriller that combines two story lines of the assassin and family man. The ending was a bit strange but can be a possible setup for future story lines. I think this story line has some POP and may really take off.

I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest opinion-
This book was a wild ride! Ian has led a double life in a secret government program. His next mission Dubai. When his wife is murdered things are hitting too close to home. His son is seeking the answers to who murdered his mother. Will he find out about his father or worse? This was a page turner of excitement!

Not my usual choice of read but the character development just sucked me in to the plot. Really riveting stuff. Good job there will be a sequel because I wouldn't have been happy with the ending otherwise.

Great first book in the series. We meet a seemingly mild-mannered sales rep who just happens to be one of the government’s best assassins. While he is overseas, his family must live without him, not knowing who/what he really is. We follow him through another dangerous mission while also following his family’s issues at home. The story pulls all together very well and as an added plus gives us a teaser leading to the next book in the series.