(Reviewed by Don Jung)
If you enjoy action thrillers filled with international espionage, military intrigue, and nonstop suspense, The Hunted by Steven Max Russo delivers an exciting ride.
Ophelia Harris, a former intelligence analyst, finds herself in serious trouble when an operation in Afghanistan goes terribly wrong. The only survivor of an ambush, she disappears with two suitcases of cash and becomes the target of the private security firm she once worked for. Gerhard Mueller, who oversees the firm, is convinced a traitor is responsible for the attack and believes Ophelia must be eliminated.
With experience working alongside the CIA, Ophelia tries to disappear in a quiet beach town, but trouble soon catches up with her. While attempting to escape through an airport, she unexpectedly encounters Austin Medford, a former Army Ranger who recognizes her from the Afghan firefight years earlier. When two spies open fire, Austin comes to her rescue. Suddenly, both are targets, with hired killers closing in.
What follows is an exciting game of cat and mouse as the two try to stay alive while questioning each other’s abilities and figuring out whom they can trust.
I found the characters believable, and the military and international espionage elements added depth to the action. The suspense builds with each chapter, keeping you guessing about what will happen next. I finished this book in just two days because it was difficult to put down.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced action thriller with plenty of twists, danger, and suspense, The Hunted is well worth your time.