What do you think?
Rate this book
Messenger for the Dead
AN INTERNATIONAL MANHUNT
A VICTIM’S QUIET RAGE
VENGEANCE BELONGS TO THE DEPARTED
"This suspenseful thriller is twisty, cleverly crafted and brimming with action."
- The Book Commentary
"Messenger for the Dead doesn't disappoint. Intense ... sharp ... cuts deep."
- Independent Book Review
He was last seen leaping off a pier in Scotland, pursued by two men hell-bent on justice. In the days that ensued, the world had one question: what happened to Aadan Mukhtaar, the terror mastermind behind three of the most heinous attacks on European soil?
Investigative journalist Mathieu James and British operative Conan MacGregor were the hunters that night. What they didn’t know was whether the terrorist died at their hands, or evaded capture. Again.
One week later, a mysterious sailing yacht appeared in the waters near Oslo, towing a clue that ignited a manhunt in the Nordics. Meanwhile, a somber task is underway in Edinburgh, site of the most recent horrors. As the intrigue builds, so do the stakes—from the glittering lights of Los Angeles to the marble quarters of Washington, D.C.; from the smoke-filled inner sanctum of Moscow’s military intelligence units to the fabled halls of London’s secret service. All roads point to the picturesque Camelot of Norway, where Russian assets are inserted to shepherd a most wanted man to safety.
As allies brace for another attack, James reunites with MacGregor, CIA analyst Alyssa Stevens and colleague Ana-Marie Poulin. Together with Norwegian special forces, they find themselves in a dangerous game of chance, as Moscow pulls the strings of deceit.
In this electrifying sequel to Matthew Fults’s award-winning debut The Scotland Project, tension simmers as the hunt spills into the streets. The predators are hungry. The world is on edge. Sinister forces linger in the shadows. Vengeance belongs to the departed. Perfect for fans of Jack Slater and Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan.
A VICTIM’S QUIET RAGE
VENGEANCE BELONGS TO THE DEPARTED
"This suspenseful thriller is twisty, cleverly crafted and brimming with action."
- The Book Commentary
"Messenger for the Dead doesn't disappoint. Intense ... sharp ... cuts deep."
- Independent Book Review
He was last seen leaping off a pier in Scotland, pursued by two men hell-bent on justice. In the days that ensued, the world had one question: what happened to Aadan Mukhtaar, the terror mastermind behind three of the most heinous attacks on European soil?
Investigative journalist Mathieu James and British operative Conan MacGregor were the hunters that night. What they didn’t know was whether the terrorist died at their hands, or evaded capture. Again.
One week later, a mysterious sailing yacht appeared in the waters near Oslo, towing a clue that ignited a manhunt in the Nordics. Meanwhile, a somber task is underway in Edinburgh, site of the most recent horrors. As the intrigue builds, so do the stakes—from the glittering lights of Los Angeles to the marble quarters of Washington, D.C.; from the smoke-filled inner sanctum of Moscow’s military intelligence units to the fabled halls of London’s secret service. All roads point to the picturesque Camelot of Norway, where Russian assets are inserted to shepherd a most wanted man to safety.
As allies brace for another attack, James reunites with MacGregor, CIA analyst Alyssa Stevens and colleague Ana-Marie Poulin. Together with Norwegian special forces, they find themselves in a dangerous game of chance, as Moscow pulls the strings of deceit.
In this electrifying sequel to Matthew Fults’s award-winning debut The Scotland Project, tension simmers as the hunt spills into the streets. The predators are hungry. The world is on edge. Sinister forces linger in the shadows. Vengeance belongs to the departed. Perfect for fans of Jack Slater and Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2025
7 people are currently reading
846 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Fults
4 books25 followersMATTHEW FULTS is an acclaimed writer, documentary filmmaker and photographer.
As a writer, his travel essays have been humorously described as the love child of Ernest Hemingway and Hunter S. Thompson on LSD. He is known for his sensory detail and narrative description as well. Matthew has won awards at the state and national level, and has been published in newspapers, magazines and digital publications worldwide.
His documentary films have been celebrated by The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, Detroit Free Press and others while also appearing as official selections in international film festivals. His work has appeared on ESPN, NBC, Fox Sports Networks, Comcast SportsNet, CNN and leading digital platforms such as NBCOlympics.com and Yahoo!
Through the lens he has worked with iconic international brands such as Reebok, REI, Subaru of America, CCM Hockey, Zeal Optics, Rossignol, Dynastar, Lange, Roxy, the United States Olympic Committee and the NCAA among others.
His debut novel, The Scotland Project, has been met with acclaim, being named a finalist for best thriller of the year. It's sequel, Messenger for the Dead, debuted summer 2025. The final book in the series, The Consequence of Sin, will land January 2026.
Meanwhile, his literary fiction debut, The Sunflower Widows, is being heralded as "A quiet triumph" and "Masterful." It's scheduled for a Sept. 23, 2025 release.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
June 18, 2025
How pleasant to read an action thriller that is well paced and immerses the reader progressively as the plot develops. Such reflective writing enables you to understand the many aspects and agencies at work fighting terrorism and unfriendly countries.
A new author to me. Given the opportunity to read this book ahead of its publication I didn’t have chance to read the first instalment of this thrilling series. However, much is referenced and mentioned in passing so there is no loss of detail on how we have got here and what the mission is going forward. These notes and explanations mean I will in due course read the first adventure of terror and the struggle to prevent atrocities and capture those responsible. “The Scotland Project” is a book to look out for and place this one fully into context.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the sense of rogue states supporting and exploiting terror groups and the simple deniability offered in this case by Russian in their clandestine operations and desire to eliminate any criticism of their regime.
This is fiction at its best where it blurs legitimate government aims and intentions; mixing fact, real agencies from MI6, MI5, CIA, FBI to Russian’s SVR and GRU.
What I liked especially in this piece was the extension of the usual suspects and players in this threat to western democracy. I particularly enjoyed the involvement of Norwegian special service and the use of locations from Oslo to Bergen. It was also interesting to see the work of investigative journalists amid the chaos and destruction.
It was also brilliant to see the French involvement in this European search for the terrorist mastermind who is on the run. Now I find no enjoyment in reading about the taking of innocent lives by suicide bombers at a Christmas Markets. It seems to me that the author is not writing about terrorism for the reader to observe as some might be drawn to a look upon a burning building. There is no justification given in this narrative; the motivation of revenge seems appropriate but the tenor of the prose goes beyond that, detailing fears and human traits which challenge the reader without justify the evil. This for me is drawn out well and in an insightful way by the interrogation in Paris of suspects.
There are darker moments in other questioning set pieces which do not stop short of torture. A hard read at times.
The overall impression this novel brings is in depth research; a fresh approach to this genre. A more collaborative efforts not the invincible lone agent like a Bond or a Bourne. Teamwork, including courageous female agents with mistakes made and missed opportunities to capture our fugitive.
I enjoyed this multi aspect storytelling combining the many situations in play, the various people pulling strings and coordinating operations. These short chapters help build the tension and leave many interactions and agents vulnerable and we can sense strategies that may place them in real danger.
This is a honest thriller that will shock and leave you breathless. You may feel the jeopardy builds slowly, but these are broad brushstrokes of an artist composing a complete picture. Like an old fashioned roller coaster the climb up that first incline may seem to take for ever but once it picks up speed you best hold on for dear life. Similarly, in this action packed book once gravity takes over you can’t read the pages quickly enough as you plummet to the end. Reader, beware, I foresee a further episode coming.
A new author to me. Given the opportunity to read this book ahead of its publication I didn’t have chance to read the first instalment of this thrilling series. However, much is referenced and mentioned in passing so there is no loss of detail on how we have got here and what the mission is going forward. These notes and explanations mean I will in due course read the first adventure of terror and the struggle to prevent atrocities and capture those responsible. “The Scotland Project” is a book to look out for and place this one fully into context.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the sense of rogue states supporting and exploiting terror groups and the simple deniability offered in this case by Russian in their clandestine operations and desire to eliminate any criticism of their regime.
This is fiction at its best where it blurs legitimate government aims and intentions; mixing fact, real agencies from MI6, MI5, CIA, FBI to Russian’s SVR and GRU.
What I liked especially in this piece was the extension of the usual suspects and players in this threat to western democracy. I particularly enjoyed the involvement of Norwegian special service and the use of locations from Oslo to Bergen. It was also interesting to see the work of investigative journalists amid the chaos and destruction.
It was also brilliant to see the French involvement in this European search for the terrorist mastermind who is on the run. Now I find no enjoyment in reading about the taking of innocent lives by suicide bombers at a Christmas Markets. It seems to me that the author is not writing about terrorism for the reader to observe as some might be drawn to a look upon a burning building. There is no justification given in this narrative; the motivation of revenge seems appropriate but the tenor of the prose goes beyond that, detailing fears and human traits which challenge the reader without justify the evil. This for me is drawn out well and in an insightful way by the interrogation in Paris of suspects.
There are darker moments in other questioning set pieces which do not stop short of torture. A hard read at times.
The overall impression this novel brings is in depth research; a fresh approach to this genre. A more collaborative efforts not the invincible lone agent like a Bond or a Bourne. Teamwork, including courageous female agents with mistakes made and missed opportunities to capture our fugitive.
I enjoyed this multi aspect storytelling combining the many situations in play, the various people pulling strings and coordinating operations. These short chapters help build the tension and leave many interactions and agents vulnerable and we can sense strategies that may place them in real danger.
This is a honest thriller that will shock and leave you breathless. You may feel the jeopardy builds slowly, but these are broad brushstrokes of an artist composing a complete picture. Like an old fashioned roller coaster the climb up that first incline may seem to take for ever but once it picks up speed you best hold on for dear life. Similarly, in this action packed book once gravity takes over you can’t read the pages quickly enough as you plummet to the end. Reader, beware, I foresee a further episode coming.
June 15, 2025
Messenger for the Dead distills the chaos of modern warfare into an essential narrative — where drones, spies, terrorists, and journalists collide across overlapping frontlines, each wielding unique power in a conflict without borders. We can’t wait for Book 3.
The book begins as an elite Norwegian special forces sniper, stationed atop Oslo’s famed Opera House, steadies his scope on a mysterious sailing yacht drifting in the icy waters of the Inner Oslofjord. The vessel is towing a black Zodiac—an ominous clue in an international manhunt for Aadan Mukhtaar, the Somali terror mastermind believed to be responsible for the events in Edinburgh. Surveillance teams, snipers, and a covert assault unit await the signal to launch a daring pre-dawn raid. Commander Thorssen must decide whether to risk a high-profile daylight assault on a vessel that may or may not be hiding the world’s most wanted man.
Meanwhile, a select group of international operatives are watching. In Washington D.C., CIA analyst Alyssa Stevens’ team is monitoring the events in Oslo, but is also expanding their surveillance to Bergen and Copenhagen. In London, seasoned British operative Conan MacGregor watches the live footage from Norway while liaising with M16. He sends a coded text to the other person who last saw Mukhtaar alive – Mathieu James, a former Army Ranger turned investigative journalist: The Vikings Have Found an Invader.
In author Matthew Fults’ previous novel featuring James, The Scotland Project, we learned that he lost his parents in a related terror attack in London. To say more about James’ subsequent engagement in the first book with Mukhtaar would spoil much of the surprise, but suffice to say that for him, this is personal. By the time this second book is concluded, it will become even more so.
Also returning is relentless French journalist Ana-Marie Poulin. If a Hollywood studio was making Fults’ books into a series, they would certainly insist on finding a way to turn the platonic long-distance chemistry Ana-Marie and James developed in the first book into something romantic – despite the presence of James’ loyal partner, Taylor Hendrix. Instead, credit Fults for keeping Ana-Marie a shining example of a journalist who is ethical, dependable, hardworking and brave. It’s an important distinction given that James, despite still jumping at the chance to be an embedded investigative journalist, struggles to reconcile the two worlds in which he lives (“He wasn’t reporting a story now. He was hunting a man”).
Throughout, the tensions between allies and the menace of Russia play out vividly (The Russians had built a literal machine, made of humans and technology, that could wreak havoc anywhere). In the case of Colonel Genady Sirokin, he’s willing to protect James’ adversary so long as he serves national or economic interests. And to him, Mukhtaar’s value has “no limits” – which is precisely what drives much of the suspense in the story. Five stars.
The book begins as an elite Norwegian special forces sniper, stationed atop Oslo’s famed Opera House, steadies his scope on a mysterious sailing yacht drifting in the icy waters of the Inner Oslofjord. The vessel is towing a black Zodiac—an ominous clue in an international manhunt for Aadan Mukhtaar, the Somali terror mastermind believed to be responsible for the events in Edinburgh. Surveillance teams, snipers, and a covert assault unit await the signal to launch a daring pre-dawn raid. Commander Thorssen must decide whether to risk a high-profile daylight assault on a vessel that may or may not be hiding the world’s most wanted man.
Meanwhile, a select group of international operatives are watching. In Washington D.C., CIA analyst Alyssa Stevens’ team is monitoring the events in Oslo, but is also expanding their surveillance to Bergen and Copenhagen. In London, seasoned British operative Conan MacGregor watches the live footage from Norway while liaising with M16. He sends a coded text to the other person who last saw Mukhtaar alive – Mathieu James, a former Army Ranger turned investigative journalist: The Vikings Have Found an Invader.
In author Matthew Fults’ previous novel featuring James, The Scotland Project, we learned that he lost his parents in a related terror attack in London. To say more about James’ subsequent engagement in the first book with Mukhtaar would spoil much of the surprise, but suffice to say that for him, this is personal. By the time this second book is concluded, it will become even more so.
Also returning is relentless French journalist Ana-Marie Poulin. If a Hollywood studio was making Fults’ books into a series, they would certainly insist on finding a way to turn the platonic long-distance chemistry Ana-Marie and James developed in the first book into something romantic – despite the presence of James’ loyal partner, Taylor Hendrix. Instead, credit Fults for keeping Ana-Marie a shining example of a journalist who is ethical, dependable, hardworking and brave. It’s an important distinction given that James, despite still jumping at the chance to be an embedded investigative journalist, struggles to reconcile the two worlds in which he lives (“He wasn’t reporting a story now. He was hunting a man”).
Throughout, the tensions between allies and the menace of Russia play out vividly (The Russians had built a literal machine, made of humans and technology, that could wreak havoc anywhere). In the case of Colonel Genady Sirokin, he’s willing to protect James’ adversary so long as he serves national or economic interests. And to him, Mukhtaar’s value has “no limits” – which is precisely what drives much of the suspense in the story. Five stars.
June 13, 2025
Messenger for the Dead kicks off with a bang, literally. One second you’re chasing a terrorist off a Scottish pier, the next, you’re tangled in an international mess that stretches from Oslo to DC, Moscow to LA. If you're into high-stakes spy drama with major Jack Ryan energy, this one’s calling your name.
Aadan Mukhtaar is the world’s most wanted ghost, and nobody knows if he’s dead or just playing dead (again). While the world panics and allies scramble, journalist Mathieu James and operative Conan MacGregor dive headfirst into a hunt that’s part mission, part mind game, all adrenaline.
Matthew nails the pacing, short chapters, sharp dialogue, and enough twists to keep your heart rate way above normal. You’ve got CIA, MI6, Russian ops, and Norwegian special forces all tangled in one chaotic, delicious mess. Oh, and the tension between characters? On point. Zero filler, all thriller.
This one feels cinematic. You can almost see the stormy seas, tense briefings, and smoke-filled intel rooms. It’s political, it’s brutal, and it hits way too close to real-world chaos, in the best possible way. You’re not just reading the story, you’re deep in it, ducking bullets and decoding lies.
Long story short? If you love your thrillers fast, smart, and full of fire, Messenger for the Dead delivers. And the ending? Let’s just say... you’re gonna need a minute.
Aadan Mukhtaar is the world’s most wanted ghost, and nobody knows if he’s dead or just playing dead (again). While the world panics and allies scramble, journalist Mathieu James and operative Conan MacGregor dive headfirst into a hunt that’s part mission, part mind game, all adrenaline.
Matthew nails the pacing, short chapters, sharp dialogue, and enough twists to keep your heart rate way above normal. You’ve got CIA, MI6, Russian ops, and Norwegian special forces all tangled in one chaotic, delicious mess. Oh, and the tension between characters? On point. Zero filler, all thriller.
This one feels cinematic. You can almost see the stormy seas, tense briefings, and smoke-filled intel rooms. It’s political, it’s brutal, and it hits way too close to real-world chaos, in the best possible way. You’re not just reading the story, you’re deep in it, ducking bullets and decoding lies.
Long story short? If you love your thrillers fast, smart, and full of fire, Messenger for the Dead delivers. And the ending? Let’s just say... you’re gonna need a minute.
July 26, 2025
Read this through the night
Messenger for the Dead: A Mathieu James Thriller by Matthew Fults is one of those books I couldn’t put down. The story pulls you into a high-stakes international manhunt that kept me guessing at every turn. I was captivated by Mathieu James and Conan MacGregor’s relentless pursuit of Aadan Mukhtaar, and as the stakes heighten, I started to wonder who was friend and foe. The shifting locations—from Scotland to Oslo, D.C., and Moscow—provided the excitement that derives from a well-crafted and finely drawn setting. The author cleverly develops political intrigue with personal challenges and issues. I loved how the narrative explored the shadows of espionage, with Russian assets and secret operations. This is for you if you are intrigued by well-crafted thrillers with unforgettable characters.
Messenger for the Dead: A Mathieu James Thriller by Matthew Fults is one of those books I couldn’t put down. The story pulls you into a high-stakes international manhunt that kept me guessing at every turn. I was captivated by Mathieu James and Conan MacGregor’s relentless pursuit of Aadan Mukhtaar, and as the stakes heighten, I started to wonder who was friend and foe. The shifting locations—from Scotland to Oslo, D.C., and Moscow—provided the excitement that derives from a well-crafted and finely drawn setting. The author cleverly develops political intrigue with personal challenges and issues. I loved how the narrative explored the shadows of espionage, with Russian assets and secret operations. This is for you if you are intrigued by well-crafted thrillers with unforgettable characters.
July 6, 2025
This is a tense, fast-paced international thriller that doesn’t let up right through to the satisfying climax. I felt myself physically tense up throughout the book, and several times I was reminded of The Day of the Jackal. Fults’ second book in the Mathieu James series somehow improved on the first, and I can’t wait for the next.
June 23, 2025
omg amazing book
May 19, 2025
Another quest continues. This was an intense, riveting, gripping, raw read. The trail is full of drama and action along the way. Utter suspense will hold you on the edge of your seat, as I did. Who will win this fight?? Good vs evil???? Unputdownable! Is it really over?? Nope! More drama to come. Hold on tight. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
May 19, 2025
Very well written book. Plenty of action and intrigue. Although I hadn't read the first book in the series it was easy to pick up. Definitely recommend for anyone who is a spy thriller fan.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2025
This was an exciting sophomore thriller that I was fortunate enough to have been allowed to read and be given the opportunity to provide my five cents worth in return for an honest review by the Author (Mathew Fults), his publisher (Severn River Publishing), and the folks at Booksirens. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In his debut thriller, the author allowed the reader to discover evidence of a fifth bomber/master organizer who had helped to plan and finance the July 7, 2005, terrorist attack in London, England, and introduced his main protagonist, Mathieu James, a Los Angeles-based senior investigative reporter at the International Herald Tribune newspaper and a participant in the CIA’s Non-Official Cover Program (A NOC operative is an intelligence officer who operates clandestinely under a covert identity that's not traceable to the agency they work, for deeper infiltration and access).
_____________________
For background information, the terrorist attack on 7 July 2005 involved four suicide bombers who struck London's transport network, killing 52 people and injuring over 770 others. Three of the blasts happened on the London Underground (a total of four bombs were detonated on the tube and a bus in the morning rush hour), on or around 8.50 am, in the vicinity of Aldgate, Edgware Road, and Russell Square stations.
_____________________
In his sophomore attempt, we are inserted back into the hunt for the world's most wanted terrorist, Aadnan Mukhtar, as he was last seen leaping off a Scottish pier at the Port of Aberdeen being pursued by the forces of justice as he vanishes into the shadows, leaving chaos in his wake.
The book opens a week later with members of the vaunted Marinejegerkommandoen (the Norwegian equivalent to the US Navy Seals) staring through their rifle scopes as part of the worldwide manhunt for Aadnan Mukhtar, after just days prior, a Norwegian Maritime Authority officer had entered a note into a cloud server stating that "a vessel is towing a black Zodiac. Departure point unknown. Will monitor."
_____________________
For a little background on the Marinejegerkommandoen:
Marinejegerkommandoen (MJK) (English: Naval Special Operations Commando) is the maritime/naval special warfare unit of the Norwegian Armed Forces and was established in 1953.
The MJK is under the command of the Norwegian Special Operations Command (NORSOCOM) together with the Forsvarets Spesialkommando (FSK), with the MJK being the older of the two units. The unit is headquartered on the Ramsund naval base in northern Norway, with other MJK operators stationed on the Haakonsvern naval base in southwestern Norway.
The Marinejegerkommandoen plays an integral part in modern warfare operations. The unit carries out missions that require thorough planning, quick reaction, high precision, covert implementation, daring, courage, and the ability to work independently. As with all SOF missions, they target objectives of high or critical strategic value.
The Marinejegerkommandoen have participated in a number of international operations. The unit conducted operations in Afghanistan in 2002 (Task Force K-Bar), in 2003 and in 2005–2006, as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.
_____________________
As the intrigue builds, so do the stakes—from the glittering lights of Los Angeles to the marble quarters of Washington, D.C.; from the smoke-filled inner sanctum of Moscow’s military intelligence units to the fabled halls of London’s secret service. All roads point to the picturesque town of Bergen in Norway, where Russian assets are inserted to shepherd a most wanted man to safety.
The main protagonist, Mathieu James, in addition to being a journalist and a NOC for the CIA, is also related to two of the victims of the London attack almost two decades previously, which provides an ulterior motive for the hunt for Mukhtar. James continues to be a do-gooder type character with some anger issues, but now he's gone off the deep end a little, and I get it. It is my opinion that the author has written James as a really interesting character, and in this book, he is faced with some choices that he wouldn't want to make, and sometimes he makes a surprising choice. At the end, which was really intense, the plot moves very quickly, and the characters are believable. This suspenseful thriller is twisty, cleverly crafted, and brimming with action. Fults’ gift for character shines through the pages. His characters are characterized by their solidity, intricate exploration, and lasting impact.
In this pulse-pounding international thriller, time is running out, trust is a luxury, and the truth might be the deadliest weapon of all. Perfect for fans of Vince Flynn and Jack Carr. In addition, this novel was a reminder to governments and individuals to remain vigilant against both domestic and foreign threats. This was a quick read of only 292 pages that I would highly recommend to readers of action thrillers (particularly those that are focused on the current events in Europe), and as such, I would easily give this debut novel a solid five stars.
As with all my literary ramblings, these are just my five cents' worth.
Although the story is relatively easy to pick up and can be read as a stand-alone, I would highly recommend reading the first book in the series.
In his debut thriller, the author allowed the reader to discover evidence of a fifth bomber/master organizer who had helped to plan and finance the July 7, 2005, terrorist attack in London, England, and introduced his main protagonist, Mathieu James, a Los Angeles-based senior investigative reporter at the International Herald Tribune newspaper and a participant in the CIA’s Non-Official Cover Program (A NOC operative is an intelligence officer who operates clandestinely under a covert identity that's not traceable to the agency they work, for deeper infiltration and access).
_____________________
For background information, the terrorist attack on 7 July 2005 involved four suicide bombers who struck London's transport network, killing 52 people and injuring over 770 others. Three of the blasts happened on the London Underground (a total of four bombs were detonated on the tube and a bus in the morning rush hour), on or around 8.50 am, in the vicinity of Aldgate, Edgware Road, and Russell Square stations.
_____________________
In his sophomore attempt, we are inserted back into the hunt for the world's most wanted terrorist, Aadnan Mukhtar, as he was last seen leaping off a Scottish pier at the Port of Aberdeen being pursued by the forces of justice as he vanishes into the shadows, leaving chaos in his wake.
The book opens a week later with members of the vaunted Marinejegerkommandoen (the Norwegian equivalent to the US Navy Seals) staring through their rifle scopes as part of the worldwide manhunt for Aadnan Mukhtar, after just days prior, a Norwegian Maritime Authority officer had entered a note into a cloud server stating that "a vessel is towing a black Zodiac. Departure point unknown. Will monitor."
_____________________
For a little background on the Marinejegerkommandoen:
Marinejegerkommandoen (MJK) (English: Naval Special Operations Commando) is the maritime/naval special warfare unit of the Norwegian Armed Forces and was established in 1953.
The MJK is under the command of the Norwegian Special Operations Command (NORSOCOM) together with the Forsvarets Spesialkommando (FSK), with the MJK being the older of the two units. The unit is headquartered on the Ramsund naval base in northern Norway, with other MJK operators stationed on the Haakonsvern naval base in southwestern Norway.
The Marinejegerkommandoen plays an integral part in modern warfare operations. The unit carries out missions that require thorough planning, quick reaction, high precision, covert implementation, daring, courage, and the ability to work independently. As with all SOF missions, they target objectives of high or critical strategic value.
The Marinejegerkommandoen have participated in a number of international operations. The unit conducted operations in Afghanistan in 2002 (Task Force K-Bar), in 2003 and in 2005–2006, as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.
_____________________
As the intrigue builds, so do the stakes—from the glittering lights of Los Angeles to the marble quarters of Washington, D.C.; from the smoke-filled inner sanctum of Moscow’s military intelligence units to the fabled halls of London’s secret service. All roads point to the picturesque town of Bergen in Norway, where Russian assets are inserted to shepherd a most wanted man to safety.
The main protagonist, Mathieu James, in addition to being a journalist and a NOC for the CIA, is also related to two of the victims of the London attack almost two decades previously, which provides an ulterior motive for the hunt for Mukhtar. James continues to be a do-gooder type character with some anger issues, but now he's gone off the deep end a little, and I get it. It is my opinion that the author has written James as a really interesting character, and in this book, he is faced with some choices that he wouldn't want to make, and sometimes he makes a surprising choice. At the end, which was really intense, the plot moves very quickly, and the characters are believable. This suspenseful thriller is twisty, cleverly crafted, and brimming with action. Fults’ gift for character shines through the pages. His characters are characterized by their solidity, intricate exploration, and lasting impact.
In this pulse-pounding international thriller, time is running out, trust is a luxury, and the truth might be the deadliest weapon of all. Perfect for fans of Vince Flynn and Jack Carr. In addition, this novel was a reminder to governments and individuals to remain vigilant against both domestic and foreign threats. This was a quick read of only 292 pages that I would highly recommend to readers of action thrillers (particularly those that are focused on the current events in Europe), and as such, I would easily give this debut novel a solid five stars.
As with all my literary ramblings, these are just my five cents' worth.
Although the story is relatively easy to pick up and can be read as a stand-alone, I would highly recommend reading the first book in the series.
July 23, 2025
This book was a rollercoaster from start to finish. I am a fan of thrillers, especially Clancy, and this author reminds me of his work. Messenger for the Dead by Matthew Fults delivered everything I look for in international espionage — covert operations, a manhunt that takes you through exciting locations, and characters that are ingeniously written. The chase for Aadan Mukhtaar feels personal yet massive in scope, spanning continents and involving a cast of well-developed characters. I especially appreciated the dynamic between Mathieu James and Conan MacGregor—each brings their expertise to the table, making the team lovable. The plot’s twists kept me on edge, especially as I tried to figure out who was truly in control—the hunters or the shadows pulling the strings. Matthew Fults has crafted a tense, intelligent thriller that resonates with fans of political and military suspense. I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next installment.
July 23, 2025
I was drawn into Messenger for the Dead by Matthew Fults by its promise of a global manhunt filled with secrets, deception, and relentless danger. The story’s pacing was ruthless, with each chapter revealing new layers of conspiracy. Mathieu James and Conan MacGregor’s partnership was compelling and elaborately explored, and I found myself rooting for their success amidst the chaos. The novel’s international scope—stretching from Europe to the U.S. and Russia—gave it a grand, cinematic feel, which I loved. It’s a story about vengeance, but also about the gray morality of espionage, where trust is scarce. The tension builds beautifully, culminating in a gripping climax that leaves you craving more. The author’s attention to detail and believable characters made me feel like I was right there in the thick of the action. An exhilarating read for anyone who loves thrillers with depth and global stakes.
July 11, 2025
A terrorist was last seen being shot and jumping off a pier in Scotland. Did he die or did he escape? A multi-country manhunt is underway, which leads them to a yacht sailing off the coast of Norway. Mathieu James is an investigative reporter, but also an undercover CIA agent. He can travel using his articles as a cover. - Perfect, in this case, as he can help with the manhunt and write the story.
It seems that the authorities have covered all escape routes from the yacht, but after boarding, they discover that the terrorist was there, but now gone. Can they gather their resources fast enough to capture him before he escapes?
This is not a stand-alone book as it continues the unfinished story of book 1. I did not read the first book, wish I had. Excellent read, and great characters. Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC of this book.
It seems that the authorities have covered all escape routes from the yacht, but after boarding, they discover that the terrorist was there, but now gone. Can they gather their resources fast enough to capture him before he escapes?
This is not a stand-alone book as it continues the unfinished story of book 1. I did not read the first book, wish I had. Excellent read, and great characters. Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC of this book.
May 20, 2025
Thanks, BookSiren for the advance copy. I'm leaving this review of my own opinion.
I did read the first book called The Scotland Project and really liked it. This second book is even better. The pace is faster.. I would called it relentless. The action just doesn't stop like some other reviewers mentioned. James is an interesting character and in this book he is faced with some choices that he wouldn't want to make and sometimes he makes the surprise choice. At the end, which was really intense, (ok no spoilers from me!)
Messenger for the Dead is well-written, intense and like i said earlier relentless. Highly recommend this and the first one can't wait for the next. -ew
I did read the first book called The Scotland Project and really liked it. This second book is even better. The pace is faster.. I would called it relentless. The action just doesn't stop like some other reviewers mentioned. James is an interesting character and in this book he is faced with some choices that he wouldn't want to make and sometimes he makes the surprise choice. At the end, which was really intense, (ok no spoilers from me!)
Messenger for the Dead is well-written, intense and like i said earlier relentless. Highly recommend this and the first one can't wait for the next. -ew
May 20, 2025
Really enjoying this series! The descriptions and the action are so realistic. Mathieu James continues to be a do-gooder type character with some anger issues but now he's gone off the deep end a little and I get it. The plot moves very quick and the characters are believable. I went to Norway several years ago and I could really visualize what he was writing about. It was intense with a surprise ending... well done to the author. If you like spy thrillers or action type books this will make you happy to read.
I received an advance copy of the book on social media and am freely leaving my viewpoint.
I received an advance copy of the book on social media and am freely leaving my viewpoint.
May 21, 2025
I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving a review on my own accord! This book is an excellent sequel to the first of the Mathieu James series. It is fast-paced, has plenty of well-written action, and feels like watching a movie! I thoroughly enjoyed it and absolutely recommend – can't wait for the next one!
June 17, 2025
A fast-moving, suspense-filled read that grabs you from the very start and doesn't let go. I really enjoyed the insider view of so many people in so many places and professions working to put the pieces together to try and get their man. And as someone who values journalism and truth, I especially love the journalists' role in all of it. Fun read!
July 1, 2025
This book, the second Mathieu James thriller, can be read as a standalone. For the best immersive experience, however, I recommend reading book 1, The Scotland Project. Happy reading!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews