VENDETTA
About
An aspiring actor from Idaho who makes it big on Broadway and then Hollywood, Barrett had no idea that helping the NYPD prosecute a predator would put him, his partner, and old friends in jeopardy years later. But as the saying goes, No Good Deed Goes Unpunished. A charity event where Barrett is honored for his philanthropy sets in motion the plot to kill him. Now he and his family and friends are in a fight for their lives against a cunning evil foe pursuing his vendetta against Barrett and everyone he cares for.
Praise for this book
As someone immersed in psychological studies, I found Davis's "Vendetta" refreshingly thoughtful in its portrayal of revenge motivation and family dynamics. The novel follows actor Barrett Oleson facing both an enemy's revenge plot and discovering an adult biological son, but what captivated me was Professor Gibbons' character—finally, a fictional psychologist who doesn't rely on tropes! His application of behavioral analysis to predict the antagonist's deteriorating mental state reflects genuine forensic psychology practices, particularly when he employs the Scorpion and Fox fable to explain fixed behavioral patterns under stress.
The timeline occasionally jumps awkwardly, and some psychological explanations feel shoehorned into dialogue rather than organically revealed through character interaction. Nevertheless, Davis skillfully demonstrates how obsessive vengeance creates cognitive distortions that ultimately harm the revenge-seeker—a phenomenon I've encountered repeatedly in research. What elevates this thriller is its exploration of identity formation and familial attachment across biological and chosen family systems. Davis has created not just an entertaining thriller, but a case study in how trauma and revelation reshape human connections.
5.0 out of 5 stars An Introspective and Gripping Tale
Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2024
Format: Hardcover
This masterfully weaves an intricate, deeply personal, and universally resonant story. The protagonist, Barrett Oleson, journeys through life's pivotal moments, from his humble beginnings in Pocatello, Idaho, to the challenges of fame and personal authenticity. Davis’ ability to balance rich character development with suspenseful storytelling is commendable, drawing readers into Barrett’s struggles and triumphs while exploring themes of family, identity, and the consequences of standing up for what's right. The narrative is a poignant reminder of how our past shapes who we are and what we become.The writing is heartfelt and introspective, reflecting the emotional depth of the protagonist’s experiences. Davis' attention to detail in crafting settings and relationships makes the world feel alive and relatable. While the pacing occasionally slows to accommodate the detailed backstory, the payoff is worth it, as it enriches the reader's understanding of Barrett's decisions and motivations. "Vendetta" is a story of conflict and a testament to resilience, justice, and personal growth. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy thoughtful, character-driven narratives with a touch of drama and suspense.
No good deed goes unpunished. It’s true in life and in the pages of this novel. The protagonist is Barrett, an aspiring actor from a small town who made it big in Hollywood, is the protagonist. When he helps the NYPD prosecute a predator, his world implodes and everyone he loves is at risk. It is horrifying because it hits home. Life is precious. The ending made me hold my family a bit closer. This book was well-written, and the characters were well-developed. With all the violence in the world, the story as relatable as real-life stories of crimes on 20/20. Yikes!