06 December 2024

Deadbeat by Adam Hamdy is a dark and gripping exploration of moral ambiguity, revenge, and self-destruction. From the outset, Peyton Collard’s descent into a world of violence and moral compromise makes for an unsettling yet utterly compelling read.

I am new to this author and after accepting the blog tour spot, I found myself thinking that perhaps this book would be geared toward a male audience. The good news, while this book is action packed, there is plenty of emotion as well.

Peyton is a fascinating antihero—damaged, flawed, and deeply human. Hamdy paints a vivid picture of a man whose life has been unravelled by tragedy, leaving him vulnerable to manipulation. The premise of being offered a significant sum of money to kill an “evil man” is as morally grey as it is intriguing, and Hamdy expertly navigates this territory without offering easy answers. Peyton’s internal struggle as he becomes a tool for someone else’s agenda is raw and intense.

The action sequences are unflinching, with Hamdy’s sharp writing capturing the chaos and violence of Peyton’s vigilante acts. Yet, beneath the bloodshed lies a deeply psychological narrative as Peyton begins to question his mysterious patron and, ultimately, himself. The mounting tension as he seeks answers is riveting, keeping the pages turning late into the night.

What I loved about the book is its exploration of larger themes—grief, identity, and the cost of revenge. Peyton isn’t a simple protagonist; he’s wrestling with the man he was, the man he’s become, and the man he’s being forced to be. This complexity makes his journey all the more compelling. The anonymous patron’s role in the story is another highlight. Their identity and motives are shrouded in mystery, creating a sense of paranoia that adds to the book’s suspense. As Peyton’s investigation deepens, the revelations are shocking and thought-provoking, making you question who the true villain is.

While Deadbeat is a gripping read, it’s not without its flaws. The pacing occasionally falters during Peyton’s introspective moments, and some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, existing more as plot devices than fully realized individuals. However, these minor issues don’t weaken the overall impact of the story.

Adam Hamdy delivers a dark, thought-provoking thriller that challenges you to deal with questions of morality and justice. Deadbeat is an emotionally charged novel that lingers long after the final page. If you’re a fan of morally complex protagonists and high-stakes storytelling, this book is for you.