The Last Protector

The Last Protector by Simon Gervais has a powerful and shocking start, but it doesn’t stop there. Action, suspense, treachery, and intrigue keep this novel moving at a terrific pace. When powerful men and women do shocking things, is there anyone that can stop them?

The novel has aspects of espionage, political, business, and military thrillers as well as settings that include Afghanistan, Iraq, South Africa, North Carolina, Texas, California, Virginia, and Washington D.C. It is exactly what you would expect from a well-written action thriller with lots of concern over how to protect one’s loved ones as well as some information on weapons and gear.

Clayton White is a former air force combat rescue officer that is now working for the Secret Service and leading the protection detail for the Veronica Hammond, the daughter of the vice-president-elect of the United States. She is also his secret girlfriend. When she becomes the target of a group of mercenaries, Clayton encounters lies, secrets, and unexpected foes. Who can he trust besides Veronica?

Clayton and Veronica are both likeable characters, but Clayton has more depth, which is natural for the main character of a series. His courage, valor, and loyalty, as well as his fair treatment of others gains him respect from his team and superiors. His flaws seem to be few except for accepting some things as fact without double-checking them. I hope that both of them gain depth as the series progresses. Readers do not get a sense of their lives when they are relaxing. Many of the other characters are well-drawn for their roles and some are unforgettable.

Part One is set six years ago and is short, but important. This opening is strong and has memorable scenes that immediately pulled this reader into the story. A narrative that is suspenseful and action-filled through-out moves at a blistering pace. The author’s military and federal experiences are reflected in the well-crafted action situations that felt genuine.

Short chapters are full of action, difficult choices, and betrayals. The story line is somewhat straightforward with a clear sense of good versus evil. My biggest quibble is that the ending felt rushed; especially near the ending in South Africa. Additionally, in one of the scenes, one of the “bad guys” made a mistake that did not seem in character for him. However, it was so full of action and excitement that it kept me turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. I was kept fully invested in the mission becoming a success.

Overall, this book was suspenseful, riveting, fast-paced, and entertaining. If you enjoy espionage or military thrillers with a strong lead character, then this may be the series for you. The combination of an entertaining story line and lots of action makes this an intoxicating novel. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

Thomas & Mercer and Simon Gervais provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication was November 1, 2021.