Product Description
Ingenious detective Lucas Davenport knows he's met his match--a wanton killer who knows more about mind games than Lucas himself.Amazon.com Review
John Sandford's acclaimed Prey novels featuring the brilliant Lucas Davenport have plunged millions of readers into the darkest recesses of the criminal mind.Now Lucas has met his match.His newest nemesis is more intelligent, more deadly, than any he has tracked before: a kidnapper, a violator, and a cruel, wanton killer who knows more about mind games than Lucas himself. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (63)

Another great thriller by John Sandford
Author John Sandford scores again with another gripping story of a psychopath on the loose who kidnaps and rapes for the sheer pleasure of living out old fantasies and after a pcychologist and her two daughters are snatched, Lucas Davenport is assigned to the case and begins his search for the kidnapper. Davenport seems to use a connect-the-dots and finely honed instincts learned from his years on the streets but here he gets a little help from the not-to-bright nut case who taunts Davenport by cell phone, daring the detective to find him before it's too late. Sandford's characters all ring true and there are several people in the novel who could potentially benefit from the doctor's kidnapping or death and Davenport has to sift through clues and scenarios and explore every angle of what turns out to be a very complicated case with several troublesome legal issues that threaten to slow down the investigation. Narrator Richard Ferrone does a great job as storyteller in Sandford's excellent thriller.

Best Davenport book so far in series (reading in order)
Mind Prey is the 7th book in the Lucas Davenport series by Sanford. I have read all seven in order, and really do enjoy the series (I was looking for a series to get into since I have completed Henning Mankell's Wallander series to this point). The Davenport series is really good, but Mind Prey is by far the best book in the series so far.

It has mystery, suspense and a heck of a lot of thrill. There really is never a dull moment. You have the perspective of the hero, Davenport, the victims and the nutball kidnapper. While the entire plot sounds typical, it is far from being just another mystery/suspense novel. Within days, I have begun the next book in the series.

Note -- I am soft when it comes to violence against women. I wouldn't exactly call the graphic nature of the crimes in this book to be too detailed, you are aware they are happening. If you can't stomach that kind of stuff, you are better off skimming lightly over it, though I do not recommend skipping it - it pulls you in closer to the characters and makes you want to see the kidnapper go down even more.

LUCAS DAVENPORT BOOKSEVEN
John Sandford offers up book seven in the PREY series, MIND PREY. His detective hero, Lucas Davenport is one of the best characters in the genre.I think this book is the best so far.(I encourage you to read them in order.) Davenport is a great detective and he is rich, that is very different too for a cop.He is a computer games creator, he drives a Porsche to work.This novel once again brings Davenport against a skilled madman gamer.A great story with great support characters.HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

The best yet


I never thought I'd find any author I like more than Nelson DeMille and his John Corey character but I like Sandford at least as much, maybe a little more.
I've read 6 or 7 and "Mind Prey" is the best yet and I loved the others.

Lucas Davenport is Sam Spade, Phillip Marlowe and Corey rolled into one. A superb character.

In fact, all Sandford's characters are real people with many sides, some not so admirable. You know, like real people.

Great series. Great writing. Great wit and down to earth grittiness without all of today's PC BS.

I still love DeMille. No one tells a story like he does. BUT, I think Davenport is the best character I've run across. Just a smidgen ahead of Corey.

But you can't go wrong with either of them. I can't wait to read the rest of the Davenport Series. Only 18 more to go!

Don Lessnau, Redford

Lucky #7
Number seven in the Davenport series, this is the best one so far. Plot and characters are deep and REAL. This is a thrill ride from page one and carries on throughout. Regarding those who have written the violence is extreme in this book, it is disturbing, but there is a raw reality feel to it. Absent that key element, the story would without a doubt lose its edge. You go into this book knowing to some level what the plot is; you can not then expect it to be anything less than intense....and Sanford has shown that is his style on most, if not all, of these Davenport episodes. ... Read more

Product Description
Kidd and LuEllen get caught in the crosshairs of an assassin hell-bent on conning the life out of the ultimate con artists. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (76)

Save your time and Money - Let this book go!
Though the basic plot is good, its got many extraneous things that needn't have been there, it pretty much added nothing but pages to read and nothing to the plot or the scene.

I think it could have been better laid out and presented, but if you're willing to live through that, it's a fairly decent story.If not, I'd skip this and move on to the next book!

His Worst?
I've read quite a few of Sanford's novels and have enjoyed them all.
I don't know what happened here. I have to rate it as one of the worst novels I have ever read. I was temped a few times to just stop. But I wanted to see if I got any better as it progressed.
It didn't. I am amazed at how some readers gave it even 4 stars.
Don't waste your time on this one.

I'm being generous giving this book 2 stars
I gave this book 2 stars because I just finished "The Run" which was much worse.

Kidd novel is a fun adventure
The Devil's Code is the second Kidd book I've read by John Sandford after reading the Hanged Man's Song.There are only four in this series of a part time artist/part time computer hacker, and I've read the last two.The Devil's Code is a fun book, where the differences in Sandford mainstay Lucas Davenport and artist Kidd are more fleshed out.Kidd is a funny guy who enjoys his life and his relationship with LuEllen.LuEllen is a thief who likes golf and cocaine and can help Kidd out with the dirty work that he isn't quite used too.

In the Devil's Code, a fellow hacker is killed and his sister comes to Kidd for help.Kidd begins to look into it and finds out that the hacker, named Standford, was researching AmMeth.Meanwhile, the US government is after a group of terrorist hackers named Firewall.The members of firewall include Kidd.There's only one problem, Kidd is on the list of terrorists and Kidd knows that isn't true.Someone must be setting him up.

In Davenport novels, Sandford spends a fair amout of time with the villian, giving the readers all the gory details of his methods.In the Devil's Code, St. John Corbeil is the villain and we get to meet him be he isn't given the center stage in this novel.There are a lot of twists and turns as Kidd and LuEllen run around the country trying to discover what's going on and also not leave any tracks for the authorities.There isn't much cat and mouse like in the Davenport novels, but there is a sense of fun, even when things get violent.

I'll move on to the first two books in the series, which by now are seriously outdated.And I hope there may be another Kidd novel in the series coming soon.

The Devil's Code
I am a good fan of John Sandford.I liked this book by him as well.He keeps you interested.There are no slow starts as he gets right to the action.I do prefer his Prey series but these others didn't dissapoint me. ... Read more

Product Description
Lucas Davenport investigates the lynching murder of an interracial couple in a small Minnesota town.Amazon.com Review
When twelve-year-old muskrat trapper Letty West stumbles on the naked bodies of Jane Warr and Deon Cash, deep in the snowy woods of northern Minnesota, it's more than another bizarre episode in her already unusual life, as Lucas Davenport discovers in this new outing in Sandford's popular series featuring the midwestern lawman who moonlights as a computer game designer. Lucas has a new wife, a new baby, and a new job as a political troubleshooter for his old boss Rose Marie Roux, but the blunt-spoken Davenport's instructions to hush the racially charged implications of what looks suspiciously like a lynching won't deter him from whomever left Warr and Cash twisting in the wind. The well-peopled plot, involving a hot car ring, an ex-nun who smuggles cancer drugs over the Canadian border, and the usual internecine wranglings between the FBI, the local cops, and Davenport, races to a satisfying denouement, but this time it's a little girl with a difficult past and an uncertain future who lingers in the reader's mind. Fortunately, Sandford comes up with an ending that makes it all but certain that his fans will meet her again. Meanwhile, all the author's usual trademarks are on display--excellent writing, an interesting scenario, and terrific pacing. --Jane Adams ... Read more

Customer Reviews (113)

One of the best in the Prey Series

Lucas Davenport is a really terrific character, along the lines of Sam Spade and Phillip Marlowe temperaments. I love Sandford and this Prey series. I can't put them down and have read them from the beginning.

I used to really like DeMille's John Corey character until DeMille got carried away with right wing jingoism.

Sandford is the best fiction detective writer I've come across and all his characters are real and imperfect and so true to real life.

A fantastic writer and superb series. I just want to keep reading and reading this series.

Solid mystery is one of the best in the series
Author John Sandford spins another gripping tale of mystery and murder as Lucas Davenport is dispatched to an isolated corner of Minnesota to investigate the murders of a black man and a white woman. The killings are just the tip of an iceberg that involve kidnapping, murder and drug smuggling and crack BCA investigator Davenport knows he has his work cut out for him in what turns out to be an involved case that has surprises at every turn. An interesting character is a young girl who figures prominently in the story who unwittingly gets in harm's way as Davenport pieces together clues in a very dangerous endgame. Narrator Richard Ferrone is excellent as he reads the novel and gives audiobook listeners a front row seat to a thrilling story.

Small town humor
Sandford writes an intriguing mystery with fascinating characters. His portrayal of a thirteen year old girl caught between childhood and adulthood was wonderful. The young girl's imagination and naiveté helps the prime detective, Lucas, solve the crimes.
Sandford does a remarkable job of bringing the characters to life. He shows us that not even small remote towns are immune from the atrocities that man does against his fellow human beings. The only difference is that in a small town everyone's life is touched. Good read.

Hanging Suspense
Another cannot put down book by John Stanford.Everything eventually comes together.It's like all story plots intertwine to make for more intrigue and who did it.

Gelati's Scoop
Blast from the Past John Sandford Naked Prey

John Sandford has created one of best characters in modern fiction in Lucas Davenport. His "Prey" novels are consistently not just good, but great. The name John Sandford is the pseudonym of the Pulitzer Prize winning journalist John Camp. It is hard not to get emotionally invested in the characters Sandford creates. The world of Lucas Davenport is never boring. Well dressed and willing to kick ass on a moment's notice makes the action taunt, compelling and fast moving.
The surrounding cast -Weather, Del, Shrake on down, make you want to keep turning the pages. The addition of Letty in this book is a stroke of genius that will benefit readers for a long time.
To say that I enjoy Sandford's brilliance is an understatement. I have read all his work and eagerly await each new book. He has a style that will grab you and not let go. Do yourself a favor. If you haven't for whatever reason discovered John Sandfords work, start at the beginning. Enjoy the evolution of the world of Lucas Davenport. The thrill ride will be worth it, from the first Prey novel to the most recent. What are you reading today? Check us out on Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter, and Linkedin.
[...] ... Read more

Product Description
A savage psychopath is playing cat and mouse with Lucas Davenport. But both killer and detective find themselves at odds with a female investigator who has intensely personal reasons for catching the killer herself-and fast. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (42)

LUCASDAVENPORTSIXTHBOOK
This is John Sandford's, sixth book with Detective Lucas Davenport, now Deputy Chief in the city of Minneapolis.I really love the series and Lucas Davenport is a great cop/character.A good cop, independently wealthy, he drives a Porsche, on the job, a smart investigator and a snappy dressing, ladies man.Speaking of which, Davenport is still with Dr. Weather Karkinnen, but does some touchy-feely with prey, Sara Jensen and has eyes for gorgeous news lady, Jan Reed. He keeps busy.The bad guy here is Koop and we meet him right off into the book.This is one bad, messy killer, and a careful stalker.Davenport is assigned to a serial case helping, terminally ill state investigator, Meagan Connell who is fixated on capturing the killer, by Chief Rosie Marie Roux.I like the chief, political ambitions, yes, but she lets her detectives do there job.Refreshing.The book and all the Prey series are smart and well written.I always recommend reading series in order, but if you can't, Sandford does a good job with background and descriptive information.HIGHLY RECVOMMENDED

Davenport Rolls On
I believe this is the 6th book in the Prey series with Lucas Davenport. As with the others leading up to it, Sandford keeps it fast paced throughout and builds all of his characters, including the continual development of Davenport. The story itself has the expected twists and turns, some humor and this particular novel carries with it plenty of brutally violent acts by the killer. Along the way, Davenport encounters side issues on his job and in his life. Makes this escapism type of novels a little more real by recognizing that our day-to-day lives are three dimensional. A great read!

Night Prey
John Sanford doesn't know how to write a bad book.I discovered him a couple of years ago and have read his entire Prey series and Virgil Flowers series.Night Prey, like his other books, is fast-paced with great description and sense of place, believable and out-of-the-ordinary characters, and compelling plot.When I pick up one of his books, anything else going on that day just takes second place.

Sandford's central character, Lucas Davenport, is the most interesting character you might run across for many a year--a tough cop who loves the ladies and drives a Porsche, a guy who can kill with no looking back when he has to, a good guy who cares about people, and a complicated person on several levels.I could go on.

In Night Prey, Sandford brings in a female state investigator who pulls no punches and adds a new element to the investigation of the gruesome murders of a number of women.She adds an opportunity for insight into Davenport's character as she works with him, and he comes to understand her better.I do like Sandford's use of women.Often they are victims, but we can't escape reality.On the other hand, he writes strong women characters who are up to dealing with Lucas--and that takes some woman.

I could have chosen any of his books to review, but I chose Night Prey so I could say that I love all of John Sandford's books and believe that the only people who won't like him are those who should have skipped this genre altogether.

A great book from a great series...
In the last 9 years or so, I haven't read much fiction, but the Prey series always catches my eyes when there is a new series book at the store. I have read just about all of them (probably just missing the last one or two published) and love them.

John Sanford can be very twisted and, in the words of one of my friends I recommended this book to, disturbing. But I love him because his books catch my attention and hold it through the end. On top of that, being someone who grew up reading mystery books (my first favorite author was Edgar Allan Poe, whose books I started reading by the time I was 8), I often find myself either guessing everything half way through the book, or just feeling like I just read the stupidest story by the time I close a book because the plot was simply too stupid and disappointing to be guessed... That is never the case with these books, they are all entertaining and great reading fun.

That said, Mind Prey is my all time favorite Prey book. It will grab your attention and you won't want to let go of the book until you've read it through the end. I won't go into details of what the story is about because I would hate to give away too much information and spoil the fun. Also, because I believe the information provided by the editor above is probably all you need.

The great thing, in my opinion, about this series is that you don't have to start reading from book one. Each book has its own plot and you will not feel lost if you don't start from the first one (although I have a feeling after reading one of the books you will be compelled to start the series from the beginning because it's that good!).

I hope you enjoy reading Sanford's books as much as I do, and you are lucky because there are about 20 Prey series books out there already, so you will have plenty to read before you are sitting around waiting for the next one to be published.:)

Enjoy!

On-time in great condition
I'm pretty new to ordering books via Amazon, but everything I've ordered so far has lived up to expectations regarding condition and delivery. Now I have another source for out of print books besides Goodwill! ... Read more

Product Description
Lucas Davenport has had disturbing cases before— but never one quite like this, in the shocking new Prey novel from the #1 New York Times–bestselling author.

John Sandford’s most recent Davenport novel, Invisible Prey, was hailed as “one of his best books in recent memory” (The Washington Post); “as fresh and entertaining as ever” (Chicago Sun-Times); and “rivetingly readable” (Richmond Times-Dispatch). But this time, he’s got something quite special in store.

A widow comes home to her large house in a wealthy, exclusive suburb to find blood everywhere, no body—and her collegeaged daughter missing. She’s always known that her daughter ran with a bad bunch. What did she call them—Goths? Freaks is more like it, running around with all that makeup and black clothing, listening to that awful music, so attracted to death. And now this.

But the police can’t find the girl, alive or dead, and when a second Goth is found slashed to death in Minneapolis, the widow truly panics. There’s someone she knows, a surgeon named Weather Davenport, whose husband is a big deal with the police, and she implores Weather to get him directly involved. Lucas begins to investigate only reluctantly—but then when a third Goth is slashed in what is now looking like a Jackthe- Ripper series of killings, he starts working it hard. The clues don’t seem to add up, though. And then there’s the young Goth who keeps appearing and disappearing: Who is she? Where does she come from and, more important, where does she vanish to? And why does Lucas keep getting the sneaking suspicion that there is something else going on here . . . something very, very bad indeed?

Filled with his brilliant trademark suspense and some of the most interesting characters in thriller fiction, Phantom Prey is further proof that “Sandford is in a class of his own” (The Orlando Sentinel). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (138)

Predictable and irritating
I agree with everything the others who weren't fond of this book had to say about it. John Sandford fan? Check. Lucas Davenport fan? Check. Prey series fan? Check. Phantom Prey fan? Good lord, no. This was a tremendously disappointing read. I don't want to be redundant and repeat what all the other reviewers said, which are full of valid points, but I would like to add that the way he tried to throw off the reader to the identity of the killer by having other things happen - going so far as to graphically describe what would make you think something he wanted you to think (that the killer was the somebody other than who it really was) to throwing in a couple sex filled passages (an annoying ploy to make the dullness not so dull...but it didn't work) seemed beneath this author. I got the feeling this book was written like an end of the semester term paper you put off until the evening before...he just threw something together, using extra words and unrelated storylines to pad the story. As with some other authors with die-hard fans (especially of books that are in a series), Mr. Sandford appears to have gotten lazy with this one, knowing the fans will devour it. Mercifully, it's not a time consuming book to plod through, but why plod at all when there are much better reads in this series? Skip it.

Screwball prey with a touch of valley girl
This review is for the unabridged audio version of this book. I am/was/may again be a John Sandford/Lucas Davenport fan, but this one has put me off the Prey series for awhile.It had a great start with Sandford's typical skill at creating interest, mood, tone, setting despite this reader's irritating take on female voices.But oh dear, by the third or fourth disk we were into three way conversations between a skinny dead guy, a gorgeous Goth with Valley Girl attitude, and one screwball heiress.Despite the ongoing appeal of Lucas Davenport, this plot just deteriorates into unbelievable baloney.We turned it off minutes from the end with our consensus being "Who cares?"

And I echo the sentiments of a previous reviewer--where were the Minnesota accents?

Murder in Minnesota
John Sanford's a pretty accomplished writer and Phantom Pray is worth the read.He developes his characters well and the story lineis good.Lucas and Weather Davenportare interesting characters; especially Lucas.He is a great criminal investigator and keeps plugging away at the bad guys till the case is solved. Heather is also quite interesting, to say the least.This is a a story within a story. The book could have utilized less profanity and still been effective. Overall, I liked Sanford's style and might note that he has a good understanding of the criminal justice system.This work highlights how mental illness can contribute to criminal actions as it does occasionally in real life.

Why goth?
This is the third Sandford/Davenport novel I've read and I was half way through the book before it got interesting.Sometimes Sandford has Davenport overanalyzing every possible little detail and other times, as in the case of the Goths, he leaves one wondering what they really were about and their use in the story line.It did end well and had a nice twist with a secondary character, Heather.The secondary plot was interesting but a little drawn out.I'll probably read more of Sandford's mysteries, but this wasn't my favorite.

Good purchase; great book
I never read John Sanford books and he has written so many.He is a very good writer (excellent narrative and description) and writes very good crime stories.I have read 2 more since this one. ... Read more

Product Description
Kidd and LuEllen, a wining pair of lovers and liars, get embroiled in a deadly con involving false identities, small-town scandals, and big-time murder. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

A early Sandford classic, still entertaining
As I read John Sandford's THE EMPRESS FILE, I was amazed how how well the book withstood the test of time. It was written in 1991 and Kidd, the main character, is a computer whiz (among other things). Just like Sandford's first Prey book, his writing has been great from day one. That's why you should definitely check out this book if you haven't read it yet. Even though the techology is twenty years old, you won't get bogged down in the computer stuff. Sandford keeps it simple, and background to the main story.

Kidd's hacker friend Bobby has friends that live in Longstreet, a town along the Mississippi River and as corrupt as can be. When the cops kill an innocent 14 year old boy, Bobby's friends Marvel and John reach out to Bobby. Bobby contacts Kidd. The goal is simple. Remove the corrupt city counsel and replace it with decent people. Oh, and give Kidd and Luellen free reign to take as much money as possible.

We don't get as much of a glimpse into the evil villains as Prey books, but this is stilll a quick, fun read, and evidence that Sandford has always been one of the best.

Another excellent job!
This is the first Kidd Series book I have read and I rather found it excellent.It keeps you wanting to read more.

Convoluted story..........
Not having read Stanford for awhile, I recalled more character development and fewer twists and turns.The story line was interesting but a bit hard to follow.

The best Sanford work product
When John Sanford invented the characters in the Kidd series (4 books) he had his best creative story line ever.These characters are so unusual, that for once you don't feel like you are reading a remake of someone elses work.The books have suspense, adventure, thrills and comedy all wrapped up together.You have to like the personalities.Besides, they are rogues you can't help but love.

It's very unfortunate for us the readers, that his best work is the work he least likes to do.

a bit dated
it is a good sanford book but it is easy to tell that it was wrote 20-30 years ago by the products in the story, but as all sanford novels a good read ... Read more

Product Description
The #1 New York Times Bestselling series featuring Lucas Davenport.

Of all the criminals that Lucas Davenport has hunted, none has been as frighteningly intelligent as the woman who's hunting him now.Amazon.com Review
In the 10th installment of his popular Preyseries, John Sandford (a.k.a. John Camp) pits his popular antihero, LucasDavenport, against a pair of cunning killers unlike any he hasencountered before.

Attorney Carmel Loan is preternaturally beautiful, intelligent, andambitious. When she becomes infatuated with fellow barrister Hale Allen,she isn't going to let a little thing like his being married get in herway. A quick meeting with an ex-client sets up the hit on Hale's wife,Barbara.The professional killer, Clara Rinker,is one of the best in thebusiness. Smart, attractive, with a gentle Southern drawl, no one wouldsuspect her of being a top Mafia hit man... er, hit person. When she takes theAllen assignment, she figures it will be easy money for a day's work. Butthings go wrong from the beginning. Loan's ex-client made a tape of themeeting, and is shaking her down for money. Worse, the shooting of awitness--a cop--brings deputy inspector Lucas Davenport into the case. Somehow Davenport has not only linked Loan to the killing, but seems tohave a lead on Rinker as well. Carmel and Clara team up to clean up theloose ends, which includes getting Davenport off their back by whatevermeans necessary.

Like all of Sandford's books, Certain Prey is a fast and furious ride.Fans of previous Prey books will find Davenport a little older, alittle more wary, but no less sharp-witted and determined. Though parts ofthe plot may stretch the limits of credulity and the dialogue falls alittle flat in places, this is still a wonderfully crafted thriller,possibly one of the best of 1999. Certain Prey cements Sandford'sstanding among such luminaries as James Lee Burke, Lawrence Block, andThomas Harris.--Perry Atterberry ... Read more

Customer Reviews (206)

"Double Trouble for Lucas"
What do you get if you have a stripper who turns assassin and joins a woman lawyer turned cold killer? "Double Trouble for Lucas. I really enjoy the "Prey" series and this one didn't let me down.

Great book. Shipped fine.
Shipping was fast and the tapes were in excellent condition. Price was perfect.Loved the book!Thank you.

Just okay
This entry in the Lucas Davenport series starts out great, with a professional hit-woman coming to town.And, for the first half of the book, the pro killer and the crazy lawyer who hired her make a good pair.By midway, the story has collapsed in on itself a bit, and becomes plodding.It tries, but never quite pulls itself out of the slump.

There aren't any real pieces of character development, in terms of the main characters, in this book, and that felt out of place.If the author had replaced Lucas and Co. with another set of generic characters, this one would have worked quite well as a stand-alone.

Reviewed for Midwest Book Review
As a teenager, Clara Rinker ran away from home and an abusive stepfather. While working as a dancer in a strip club, Clara is raped but plots her vengeance and kills the man who assaulted her. This begins a long career for Clara as a hired killer. Carmel Loan is a successful defense attorney in Minneapolis, a woman who is used to getting what she wants. And she wants Hale Allen, but standing in her way is Allen's wife. Through a third-party, Carmel hires Clara to kill Allen's wife, at which point, Lucas Davenport steps into the picture. Before Clara can enjoy her new relationship with Allen, the liaison she used to contact Clara tries to blackmail Carmel, so Carmel hires Clara personally to take care of this matter. From this point, things begin to unravel, which requires Clara and Carmel to team up and commit more murders. All the while, Davenport and his crew are one step behind the two killers, with no evidence to tie either one to any of the murders.

This is the tenth book in the Prey series by John Sandford, which remains as fresh at this point as at the beginning. Lucas Davenport is an engaging character, an intelligent and intense investigator who enjoys his career chasing killers. Although there is no actual mystery to figure out here, which marks this as more of a thriller, the chase by Davenport and several strong secondary characters is fine-tuned and all the more enjoyable to follow.

What does it take to build a sociopath?
On the surface, Carmel Loan and Clara Rinker couldn't be more different.Carmel is one of the best criminal defense lawyers in Minneapolis - as a result she has the fancy apartment, nice clothes, high profile car - she seems to have it all.Meanwhile, Clara left home when she was in her early teens because her stepfather was molesting her and became a stripper.One night after the bar closed, a drunken patron raped her in the parking lot - she arranged help from the owners of the bar for her revenge and ended up killing him.From this stemmed her career as an assassin - and one of the best in the country.She also makes a lot of money, but doesn't dare to live such a high-profile life, because to all appearances she only owns a bar in Wichita, KS while she attends school. Nonetheless, they have one thing in common - they are very good at arranging murder.

Carmel saw one thing she wanted that she could not have - another lawyer at her firm called Allen Hale.The problem was, he was married.So she contacted one of her clients, who put her in touch with Clara to arrange the murder of Barbara Hale.Clara is a professional and things almost go perfectly - except the client to whom Carmel went for this information videotaped her, and is now blackmailing her.So, she and Clara need to clean up.As each cleaning up leads to additional complications, the bodies begin to pile up and Lucas Davenport begins to smell a rat.

Intricately plotted, this is a terrifically fun book in many ways.While Carmel is a not-very-nice person (she is a lawyer, after all), you can't help but almost like Clara.After all, she bears no malice - it is just a job to her.Many misdirects and close calls leave Lucas and co. flustered as they just keep "missing by inches" when it comes to catching up with Clara.

This is one of my favorite books in the series, mostly because of the introduction of Clara.I wish things had turned out differently for her (she shows up on a subsequent book) and she had turned into a returning character, but no such luck.At any rate, I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the "Prey" series, a good thriller and/or a book with interesting anti-heroes. ... Read more

Product Description
#1 New York Times bestselling series featuring Lucas Davenport.

When a wealthy banker is shot during a hunting trip, Lucas Davenport suspects murder.Amazon.com Review
John Sandford is back with his dapper, dangerous Minneapolisdeputy police chief Lucas Davenport for a ninth "preyer"meeting. Fans of the series will be glad to hear that it's full ofsmart suspense and deduction as well as explosive action. Davenportand his fellow cops are still recovering from the deadly revengescheme that maimed them in Sudden Prey, whichseems to have ended the relationship between Lucas and his doctor ladyfriend. This accounts for the depression that dogs him as he is sentto investigate the killing of top banking executive Daniel Kresge in ahunting lodge north of Minneapolis. Any of Kresge's four fellowhunters--all employees at his Polaris Bank--could have shot him, andall had motives, as did his almost ex-wife. About halfway through thebook we find out who the real killer is, just a few pages before Lucasdoes, and that villain is a masterful creation, an example of thebanality of evil worthy of HannahArendt. This is where Sandford's beautifully honed skills atcreating suspense really kick in: he keeps us fascinated as Davenport,revitalized by an affair with a jaunty colleague, tries to turn whatwe all know into hard evidence. --Dick Adler ... Read more

Customer Reviews (127)

"Once I had a secret love, that lived within this heart of mine." Song lyrics
I give this gem a 4 1/2 star rating.

Just when the reader is thinking that John Sandford's "Secret Prey," is going to be a somewhat predictable story, the author provides his magic touch and the novel soars to a most dramatic and memorable thriller.

Bank president Daniel Kresge is murdered while on a hunting trip. He had been in the process of leading his bank into a merger that would have made him rich but would cost many of his employees their jobs. Kresge was also in the midst of a costly divorce so there were endless possibilities as to who the killer might be.

The two employees in line to take over the bank are Susan O'Dell and James Bone. They begin maneuvering for control while placing Wilson McDonald in charge during the transition.

It was almost as if the story was an afternoon soap opera with the various conspirators and Bone having an affair with Kresge's wife.

Deputy Police Chief Lucas Davenport is leading the investigation. Just as he and his team feel that they are close to identifying the killer, another bank executive is murdered and they are back to the chalk board. The hunt for the killer intensifies as Davenport takes certain steps and the killer counters. It's almost a dance of the dead.

Sandford does a masterful job. He makes the reader wonder who the killer could be, then, when Lucas has narrowed it down to one person, Davenport must get the evidence to stop the killing put away a ruthless killer.

The characters are excellent and well described. The author portrays the Minnesota countryside nicely so that the reader can visualize what the setting must look like.

I enjoyed the novel and recommend it highly.

Lucas Davenport takes on greedy executives, a cunning murderer, and a few surprises
The terrifically entertaining "Secret Prey" starts out as a clever whodunit set in the world of high-priced corporate politics: several top-tier bank executives are manuveuring for power during a merger when one of them is murdered.But as fun as it is to witness the watching-every-dime cops (well, except for Lucas Davenport, who certainly isn't poor) grilling the millionaire executives, the book becomes even more interesting later on, when it becomes clear who the culprit is.

At that point, about two-thirds of the way into the book, the story morphs into one about dysfunctional families and the broken personalities they can produce.Yet everything, the earlier straight-up whodunit and the latter dark psychological study, fits together nicely.And, have no fears, both aspects feature well done thriller elements that will keep you devouring chapters.

Adding further texture to the proceedings are the latest developments in Lucas Davenport's love life, which center around the sad dissolving of Lucas' relationship with surgeon Weather Karkinnen and the subsequent spicy affair Lucas initiates with a colleague. Well, it's really she who does the initiating, in a funny, memorable scene.

This ninth book in John Sandford's "Lucas Davenport" series is a particularly strong entry and shouldn't be missed if you have any affinity for this character or series.

Another good read
Another Sandford novel.Reading them all in the order that they were written.Each is better than the last. I have almost rate Sandford right on top with Johansen, Gerritson and Patterson.

Another Davenport hit
I read this as part of a trilogy of Davenport novels (#s 7, 8 and 9). Based on the brief synopsis of each on the book jacket, I thought I'd like this one the least. I was wrong - this was a great book. Much deeper than one can imagine - even after a slightly slow start. As with the Davenport novels up to this point, we see ongoing development of characters and a depth of the main character that grows with each book. Plenty of action in this one and a great "escapism" type novel.

No Secret; It's Another Good One
This is not only a good murder mistery of "Who Done It", but also of why were the victims picked; only the murderer knows for sure. Lucas and detectives Sherrill, Del, and Sloan do a great job unraveling the case and the author keeps you guessing the whole time. Oh you got small town cover up and big time banking politics in the one. Lucas has a new love interest in this one too, to help his recurring depression. I'll give you a hint; he works with her, but it's not the Chief. ... Read more

Product Description
A low-priced omnibus edition collects three suspenseful thrillers--complete and unabridged--from the author's popular Prey series, featuring the engaging and iconoclastic detective, Lucas Davenport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Lucas Davenport in the Prey Series
The beginning of the Prey series by John Sandford. Three books in One. How can you resist the independently wealthy Lucas Davenport? His computer games have made him rich, his detective work keeps him fascinating. The volume is a little heavy to carry, but the novels are well worth reading.

"Prey" series
I love the Lucas Davenport "Prey" series.These three books (in one cover) are no exception.If you like a good murder mystery, you will love these by John Sandford.

John Sandford is a literary genius!!
Johns books are addictive,if you buy one, you will ultimatly want to buy them all.Exspecially if you start with this book
rules of prey,it reads fast....and your heartbeat does its
best to keep up.

3 Prey's back to back. What more could you want?
If you want a book that will you can't put down, well then this is the one for you. I have all the Prey novels and to date I can trully say that they have been the best reads ever. Davenport is one hell of a cop, and delivers justice in the best two fisted way I've come to read. The Criminals are dark and sinister, and I know these three stories will keep the reader rivited till the end and still wanting more. I know I did, and can't wait for the next one.

John Sanford is the best !
I have read all of the Prey series and am a really big fan. I wasn't always a person who does alot of recreational reading . But once i started the Prey series I can't stop I have read them all and am ready for his nextrelease. I still think my favorite was Rules of Prey. ... Read more

Product Description
Healing the Wounded Spriit is for everyone who suffers from hurts--past or present. Through this book, God can help you to discern a wounded spirit in yourself and others, and, best of all, He will show you how to receive His healing power in your life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A must-read for the sick.
I've read, studied, worked in healing since my own serious illness in 1995. There is a lot of information given that was new to me, and their perspective is most interesting and helpful. They deal with the inner issues, the soul and spirit as well.

If you work with people battling chronic, long-term, life threatening illnesses or even the common cold, this book will be very helpful.

I recommend it for anyone to read, but I think you must be aware of the issues presented in this book if you work with sick people.

Much needed infromation for those who are deeply wounded
A very good book, with great information in it. Great shape as stated. Fast shipping.ThanksVickie

Healing book
As described in the ad. I haven't finished reading it yet however if you love religiion then this book will help you understand how life works and ways to handle it.

Excellent book on healing the spirit within us.
So far I've thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.. It's very in depth and a whole different perspective to the normal Christian stance on healing the wounded individual.

Healing
The works of the Sandfords are for those interested in reality based inner healing, not for anyony interested in the POP culture of Charismaniac healing and deliverence ministry. ... Read more

Product Description
Healing the Wounded Spriit is for everyone who suffers from hurts--past or present. Through this book, God can help you to discern a wounded spirit in yourself and others, and, best of all, He will show you how to receive His healing power in your life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A must-read for the sick.
I've read, studied, worked in healing since my own serious illness in 1995. There is a lot of information given that was new to me, and their perspective is most interesting and helpful. They deal with the inner issues, the soul and spirit as well.

If you work with people battling chronic, long-term, life threatening illnesses or even the common cold, this book will be very helpful.

I recommend it for anyone to read, but I think you must be aware of the issues presented in this book if you work with sick people.

Much needed infromation for those who are deeply wounded
A very good book, with great information in it. Great shape as stated. Fast shipping.ThanksVickie

Healing book
As described in the ad. I haven't finished reading it yet however if you love religiion then this book will help you understand how life works and ways to handle it.

Excellent book on healing the spirit within us.
So far I've thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.. It's very in depth and a whole different perspective to the normal Christian stance on healing the wounded individual.

Healing
The works of the Sandfords are for those interested in reality based inner healing, not for anyony interested in the POP culture of Charismaniac healing and deliverence ministry. ... Read more

Product Description
Corporate con games from the #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING author.

On the cutting edge of high-tech corporate warfare, two state-of-the-art con artists find the noose tightening--when their ultimate con turns against them. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (35)

Good service
I received the book promptly and in good shape; it was just what I wanted.

The Fool's Run
The book arrived in a timely manner but I was disappointed to find the book had been stamped all over the inside front cover and on the outside pages of the book.When I ordered the book it said it was in "excellent condition". I wanted the book to complete the series in my personal library and was unhappy with the appearance of the book.

the fools run
i haven' t finished book yet it is the typical non prey books sanford novel,his prey series is the very best.

Sandford surprisingly disappoints!
I don't know if I could have been more surprised. I have literally loved almost every John Sandford novel I have ever read. I was really looking forward to this first chapter in the Kidd saga. What I got however, seemed like it was written by a completely different author. Maybe it can be chalked up to it being an early novel of his or the "cutting edge" technology of the time is so outdated now, I don't know. The Prey series has always impressed me but this might put me off the rest of the Kidd series. The characters were so hodge podged and lame. It was weird compared to Lucas Davenport, Virgil Flowers, etc. If you want good Sandford you might want to skip this and look for the Prey novels.

Sanford at his best
I think I have read all of John Stanford books and while I love the Davenport series I think I like these stories about Kidd even better.If you like Sanford or just a good story that really moves along at a great pace try this one. ... Read more

Product Description

John Sandford's acclaimed Prey novels featuring the brilliant Lucas Davenport have plunged millions of readers into the darkest recesses of the criminal mind. Now Lucas has met his match. His newest nemesis is more intelligent, more deadly, than any he has tracked before: a kidnapper, a violator, and a cruel, wanton killer who knows more about mind games than Lucas himself. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

review
I didn't listen to the book because it was abridged.I detest abridged books so I gave it away.Next time I will be more careful about what I buy, and examine the fine print before purchasing. ... Read more

Product Description
Contains Silent Prey, Winter Prey, and Night Prey, three fast-paced, hard-boiled thrillers in the popular Prey series featuring Lucas Davenport and an array of potential victims, unexpected twists, and twisted minds. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Fourth. Fifth and Sixth in the Prey series
Silent Prey - I rated this book 3 stars. Lucas Davenport travels to New York to help capture the escapes murderer from Eyes of Prey (third in the series) and to help former a love interest weed out vigilante cops from the NYPD. This effort falls a little short in comparison to the other Prey novels, but it is very entertaining. And, yes, Lucas hooks up with another woman in this book too. Maybe he is irresistible.

Winter Prey - In his fifth Prey book, some local cops from a small community call upon Lucas Davenport to help solve the murder of a young couple. What he finds is a new love interest, in the form of an attractive medical examiner, and a ring of child molesters. Like Eyes of Prey, this book also has a suprise revelation that keeps you guessing until the end. I rated this book 4 stars.

Night Prey - I rated this book 5 stars. Lucas davenport finds his way back onto the Minneapolis police force as a political appointee. Now he has to team with a dying investigator from the BCA to catch a serial killer, who has escalated from one murder per year to a virtual killing spree. This book is also fulfilling if you have read the other Prey books, because Lucas' love life starts to stabilize, and we see him grow as a man in love.

Read these books, and keep reading the Prey series.

Suspense filled and hard to put down!
I have all the prey series and continue to be impressed with the details of Sandford's writing and scene-settings. Lucas Davenport is the best loved character I've encountered in any book! Is it possible to get the fourthbook of the prey series in hardcover? I look forward to the next one!

What's beyond great?Any "Prey" series book!
Lucas Davenport is the hero for the 90's - and well into the next century!

And now for a public service message:

Want to feel safe tonight, don't make Lucas Davenport mad at you.

Great Books, a Great Author !
Hi, I just started to read Mr. Sandford's Prey Series for the last 2 weeks, so far I have read 2 (Silent Prey and Winter Prey -- thanks to our City Library here) and I'm reading Sudden Prey.I cannot stop reading thisbook. Now I sawa new book of his (Certain Prey) and I am so excited toget it!I have to start from the beginning so I will have a set of theseseries.Mr. Sandford, you are now one of my favorite authors.Pleasecontinue and more power to you!You're the best...!

Don't miss this!
John Sandford is one of the best in the thriller genre.These books will scare the pants off you ... Read more

Product Description

Revenge is the engine which powers this entry in John Sandford's Prey series starring superslick Minnesota cop Lucas Davenport. When a dangerous female bank robber is killed in a shootout, her even more dangerous husband escapes from prison and begins a campaign of retribution against the families of Davenport and his team. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Read two, recall one
Author writes like a factory. Characters in the two books I read are hard to separate.I did not appreciate the assine remark that "even George Bush knew about DNA"Thats the sort of remark that people who do not buy novels, magazines, or newspapers belive.Does the author know what an ILS, ADF, attitude indicator is?These terms are used everyday, by pilots.The term DNA is tossed around by TV shows, but DNA tests are expensive, take a long time, and are used only in exceptional cases.Fingerprints are still used, are cheaper, and quicker.Do not recall the author referring to them.

Arthur Conan Doyal would laugh at most crime/mystery productions. These factory novels are as bad as the current car crash/explosion/bloody gun battles.I carried a gun for 29 years, made numerous felony arrests, and had my gun out twice, and never fired it on the range.This experience is probably the experience of most cops.

iqmagnolia
I am a big John Sanford fan and love the "Prey" series, however, "Sudden Prey" is not one of his best in my opinion. ... Read more

Product Description
In Lucas Davenport, John Sandford "has created one of the most engaging (and iconoclastic) characters in contemporary fiction," writes The Detroit News.The first-rate thrillers in this collection of Prey novels offer the kind of brilliantly plotted, vastly entertaining stories that have become Sandford's stock in trade.All propelled by Lucas Davenport, with his "icy killer instincts" (Orlando Sentinel ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Sandford is simply the best at what he does
Once you are halfway through the first chapter of a Sandford novel, you won't be able to put it down.Sandford doesn't use a lot of wordy description.His terse sentences conveya sense of action and urgency.Fast paced to the end.Sandford does it better than anybody else.

Lucas Davenport
I bought one of the Lucas Davenport books before I realized that there was a whole series of them.So, I didn't read the first one I bought until I found the beginning of the series.Now I own all that have been published thus far.Finding three complete novels in one book was a fantastic buy, and I made the right decision to start at the beginning of the series.Highly recommend to mature mystery lovers.

Paradise for seekers of riveting reads
This has got to be the best value combination for a good, long but intense read - certainly I enjoyed all three stories no end and would recommend to anyone in need of some gentle,and not so gentle, reading relaxation.

The stories are engrossing, the charactors unique and the pages just turn themselves!! Go for it!

John Sandford Prey Books
I love all the John Sanford Prey Books.They keep you reading and on the edge of your seat, LucasDavenport is someone I would want on my side.

I'm collecting all the hard backs, and love to get the three in one books.

How can you go wrong?
Excellent purchase, spent days reading about Davenport and crew.You can't co wrong purchasing this collection, genually entertaining and well worth the price. ... Read more

Product Description
It illumines the Bible like a searchlight, pointing out the mysteries of god. There still is much confusion and misuse of the office and the responsibilities of the prophet and the intercessor in the Christian arena. John and Paula Sandford explain how prophets are called and trained. With a great passion and urgency, they challenge all intercessors to realize and understand their vital role in the world today and how closely they must work with the prophets. John and Paula Sandford clearly explain:• What it means to be called and trained as a prophet or intercessor• How to understand dreams and visions and hear directly from God• Why it is important for the body to work in unityThis book is filled with spiritual discoveries that will effect dynamic changes in every reader. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

great reading
this came as recommended reading to me, if you are walking and living in the prophetic get the Elijah Task

Very Defining Insight!HIGHLY Recommend!
This is a book not designed for everyone, and the author begins the book telling the readers just that!Being lead to read this book, I could not have ever anticipated what awaited me in those pages!The book spoke to my season, especially when he spoke of his toughest times being his making as a Prophet, yet had had been ordained and flowing in his prophetic gifting for quite some time - it was the making of his innerman "Junior" as he calls it, that was being made and tried. His openness really ministered to me and provided revelation and insight for me on an intensely deeper level!This book is life-changing and has enabled me to break forth and cross over the threshold!!!

Highly recommend it for anyone called to the Office of a Prophet and serious about doing God's will God's way!Simple TruthCatch A Falling StarSimple Truth Too: Understanding the Bible In Everyday Life

The call and preparation of the Lord's Prophet
The Elijah Task is perhaps the most instructive and illuminating text on the role and preparation of the Prophet currently in print.It ought to be considered essential reading for any who find themselves called to - or already in - prophetic ministry, as well as for those called alongside such individuals, and who want to better understand and support their development.

Originally written in 1977, this text remains fresh and compelling; in fact, many of the pivotal teachings on the nature and function of the prophetic office emergent over the last 20 years appear to be both first contained and most succinctly expressed here.John Sandford is undoubted a father in the prophetic and one wonders how much of what we understand today actually had its origins in this work, although it is notable that the authors also make attribution to others as appropriate.

Thoroughly scriptural throughout, the Sandfords have an authentic and humble approach to their subject; the book is replete with real-life illustrations and examples, and it seems as many of these are of the lessons learned from their own mistakes as they are of spectacular `success' or stunning revelation.The theme throughout is concerning the breaking and shaping of the Prophet's character into utter dependence upon the Lord and the realisation that he never attains any state of righteousness or effectiveness in the gifting apart from that dependence.

The Elijah Task is a most practical work that will not only assist the budding Prophet in understanding and stepping into their call, but will also unambiguously dissuade them from any notion that the road ahead will be quick, easy or glorious.The Sandfords convincingly demonstrate what it means for the Prophet to be next to last in the ecclesiastical order; that the call to high office in the Church is never a elevation to honour (in this life), but rather an invitation to humiliation.Their frank and honest discussion of their own sins and failings is the greatest encouragement to those who would follow on that narrow path.

I heartily recommend this book to any with an interest in the topic.

The Best
This is the best book I have read on the office of "Prophet."The writer gives a perspective that is somewhat different than that of others.One example is this:In the Old Testament, the prophet was known to point out sin, but in this age, the role (words) of the prophet is to help bring ones not just to acknowledge their sin, but to bring them to total restoration.The writer speaks much of the need for the prophet to have a intimate relationship with the Father, and ministry will flow from that relationship. As the writer says, this book is "a call to today's prophets and intercessors."This book is excellent for anyone doing a serious study of either.

The Elijah Task
This is an excellent primer on the proper operation of the gift of prophecy and the office of prophet, the life-focus of the individual operating in this gift or office, and the importance of an intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (6)

Getting to the Roots
I'm 3/4 of the way through reading Transforming the Inner Man and have found it excellent and insightful.It reveals that in order for real change to happen, we must be aware of what's at the root of the way we behave/perform in life.As the Holy Spirit guides us, reveals to us, and then cuts that root, we become free from habitual behavior and ready to move forward to places we've only feared going.

The authors are sensitive and reveal that they have gone through transformation and continue to go through.But, they also reveal that this has lead them to walk others through.They counsel the reader on proper ways to then go out and minister to others who are held in captivities of different types.Their concern for the health of the Body of Christ and to see full restoration is refreshing.

I would not only recommend reading this book, but also work with the Holy Spirit in allowing him to do the work.

One of the most practical and important books for spiritual growth and maturity
The Sandford's were way ahead of their time with this (and other) classic books on healing and spiritual growth. When I read this I was floored by the adherence to biblical truth and clear-thinking practicality it contains. Enough of navel-gazing and introspection, this book will help set you free.

Great Insight
This book is such a help to be set free from chains from the past.It's a shame that so many walk with wounds and bondages from the things that happened years ago.By following the principles and prayers of this book, I have received much freedom and healing in my life.

Great Book
This book is phenomenal.I would recommend it to every person seeking to be free from the past and have a greater understanding of biblical teaching and processes for healing.If you desire greater freedom in your life and are ready for God to heal your heart this is the book for you.

great insight...
enjoyed reading this book because of the perspective on life from the eyes of both a pastor and a parent's viewpoint. ... Read more

Product Description
We all desire wholeness. We see our need for inner healing. All too often, however, we find it is an elusive goal. Veteran counselors, John and Paula Sandford, show the reader how to experience The Transformation of the Inner Man. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Excellent for counseling those in addiction
I picked up this book per a recommendation of a pastor and found it to be an excellent resource.It is especially helpful for those suffering with any type of addiction.Scriptural sound doctrine.

The Transformation of the Inner Man
The book is in good shape.It was mailed in a timely manner.Thankyou!

The Transformation of the Inner Man
This used book was in excellent condition.We would have liked to receive it in less time, so next time we'll pay more for quicker delivery.

Two halves of an eggshell
I read this book many years ago. It is still on my bookshelf. Standford likened marriage to two halves of an eggshell, but they are from different eggs, and they have to grind together to become one egg. This is very powerful imagery. But it is good preparation for marriage. We like to think that we are from one egg, our other half. For most people the reality is different. We have to grind together to become one flesh.

sooooo detailed and soooo life changing!
If you need lots of perspectives, angles, definitions and reflections, plus over 24,000 hours of combined experience in healing folks with mental and emotional illness, you need to read this book. In the end, it is simplified for lay folks and we can all benefit and use it to help others through the rough spots of their journeys, no matter how big the problems seem. It thoroughly changed my counseling methods and kept me from being drained at the end of the day. ... Read more

Product Description
The Transformation SeriesFear of rejection. Loneliness. Depression. Grief. Isolation. What Christian hasn't experienced these feelings at some time in life? Many wonder why their lives don't demonstrate the victorious living that they desire, asking questions like: Why can't I overcome this area in my life? Why is it so difficult for me to change? If I am a Christian, why do I keep falling into the same sinful pattern over and over again? In God's Power to Change--book two of four in The Transformation Series--readers will learn, in simple ways, how to reach and heal their spirits and the inner spirit of each person to whom they minister. Through the power of His Word and the Holy Spirit, we can--and will--change! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

This is the real thing!
If you are a Christian of any denomination from Protestant to Roman Catholic, I can hardily recommend this book and this ministry.There is genuine healing for everyone from their teaching and ministry, no matter how long you have been a Christian.

God Bless them,
Lawren
... Read more