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Night Hit cover

Executioner · #154

Night Hit

by Mel Odom · October 1991

7.8 / 10 average from 8 rated reviews

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America comes under siege as a frighteningly efficient group of unknown terrorists begin hitting the nation's biggest cities with stunning impact, turning them into war zones and graveyards, then vanishing into the night. No one knows what the killers are after or where they will strike next. But they've got a valuable young hostage and the U.S. will do anything to stop their tour of terror. It's a suicide mission, so Mack Bolan accepts. All he knows is that the suicide won't be his. That's why he's called the Executioner.

Reviews (8)

BolanFan 8/10 December 21, 2014
A solid story with many positive points…terrorists, aerial combat, pesky journalists, questionable cops, and Navy Seals. I would've given this a 9, but I don't think the author developed the villainous characters very well…although the opportunity was there to do so. The book had many strong suits. First, there was much historical information provided about Bolan. I really enjoy when the authors take time to discuss Bolan's past -- Vietnam vet called home amidst tragedy and subsequently ends up taking revenge upon the mafia. There were also many solid action scenes. From the rescue at the warehouse, to the helicopter combat, and on to the Seal Team 6 assisted victory at the end, Night Hit had some memorable reading. Lastly, after being extremely annoyed with the (somewhat) overdone negativism of the Chicago PD against Hal and Mack, one of the Chicago PD officers finally came to his senses and aided Bolan toward the end. Having Trebeck, the Seals, and Bolan join together to take down the terrorist leaders, brought a true sense of realism. Again, solid effort and the first Mel Odom book I read definitely has me wanting to read more of his work.
Gunslinger 5/10 March 15, 2007
I suppose looking back on this one, it had a subtle sort of 9/11 feel, with terrorists striking in american cities with citizens on edge. Mack comes to Chicago to hunt the elusive bad guys. The action scenes were okay, although the Soldier Field battle and the final one were pretty decent. But, most of the cops were annoying, as was the newspaper reporter. Surprising that the terrorists weren't Arab in origin. Overall, nothing really special, but a decent effort.
ice_cracked 9/10 December 21, 2005
This one's up there folks no matter how you are reading this series of books. If you are picking through the series looking for the better books well this is one of the best I have read. If you are reading the Executioner series in order this is one to look forward to. The character's introduced and the way they were written into the story was terrific. Plenty of action to keep you turning the pages and it is interesting to note the change of attitude of some of the characters towards Mack during the ending chapters. Very Worthwile Read my two bobs worth.......
Monsta Mack 9/10 September 8, 2004
This is one of Mel Odom's best books I've read so far, from the first page to the last the story had me turning the pages in a thrilling fast paced adventure. The main villain was very nasty and cunning, his terrorists were a good challenge for Bolan to take on. Most of the action is around Chicago, with Brognola having a good role in the story, and there are great scenes with Bolan working in among the police while undercover as a federal agent. The reporter Keller, was another good character, as was Trebeck, who was opposed to Bolan strongly, but when he found out who Bolan was, his actions turned out to be surprising. I also liked some references to Bolans past adventures, and this book has a kick-ass ending. A well done, entertaining novel, with Odom's storytelling strengths at top-notch level and even the action scenes were written better than expected. A strong 9.
Jeff Reiland 9/10 November 1, 2003
Rather a good read,gives you a lot of food for thought,like what IF a top CT unit like Seal Team 6 would go rogue and decide to go into business for themselves.Trebeck getting to walk on the wild side with Mack and the SEALs was a nice touch also.
Dan Xavier 8/10 October 14, 2003
This could have been a 10 so easily. 1) Hal Brognola was a major character. Even got into a firefight with Mack. This is such a rare occurance and so fun to read. He also was fighting verbally with the police chief who wanted to arrest Mack. 2) The action scenes were so well written especially the scene at Soldiers Field in Chicago. The character reactions especially the cops were well done. I also enjoyed the aftermath when Mack and Trebeck a good cop were fighting hand-to-hand and Mack had to hold back. 3) I also liked the character of Trebeck. I liked how he wanted to find out who Agent Fox was and then noticed similarities between him and a Mack Bolan who came into the city years ago. Agent Fox was Mack Bolan. The way Trebeck described Mack was perfect as a "Joker in the deck". 4) I also really liked the plucky reporter who kept trying to get the scoop. On the other hand why this book doesn't deserve a ten is: 1) What was Dreyse's point? Did he want to create terror or to make money? This was never really clear nor were there goals beyond money and terror ever explained. 2) Driving nothing but Volkswagens could these terrorist be any stupider? Sheesh. I cannot picture real terrorist ever stating "hey lets just use Volkswagens". 3) The last scene on the Alaskan island. If this was between the US and Russia wouldn't you think this would have been a monitoring station at least? With American troops stationed? Having the terrorists use this as a base not too bright - could easily be trapped with bad snow storm or ice. I suggest a really good story with some flaws. A solid 8.
MaxDanger 9/10 July 23, 2002
Terrorists have come up with a new campaign of terror. They blitz an American city over night, taking hostages and demanding ransom by 9 AM when the banks open. Then they fade away. After 2 cities have been hit, Bolan comes in time to try and save the third, Chicago. Very good book. Tense action scenes and gripping plot combine to make this one a winner. The winter setting is nice too; it gives more character to the book, it's less generic. The only thing keeping this from the highest rating is that the ending seemed slightly rushed. It was too easy for Bolan to wrap this up, and the final confrontation was less than expected. Overall, however, this is a great read and highly recommended.
FROGMAN 5/10 May 20, 2000
Another so-so entry that was typical of the mid 100's of the series.