Creasy thought he had nothing left to lose. He was wrong.An American soldier of fortune far from home — alcoholic, burnt out, and broken down — Creasy has accepted a job as a bodyguard just for something to do. An emotionally dead, one-time warrior, he knows that nothing can pierce the hard shell he’s built around himself — until the little girl he’s been hired to protect somehow breaks through. But having something to care about again in making Creasy vulnerable. And when the unthinkable occurs, a man on fire won’t just burn … he’ll explode.
Dive into the gripping world of A.J. Quinnell's *Man on Fire*, a heart-wrenching thriller about redemption, vengeance, and the unexpected power of human connection. This New Edition paperback takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, exploring the depths of despair and the explosive consequences of betrayal. John Creasy, a hardened American soldier of fortune, is a man adrift. Haunted by his past and battling the demons of alcoholism, he accepts a seemingly mundane job as a bodyguard in Italy. His assignment: to protect Pia Varelli, a bright and innocent young girl. Creasy, emotionally numb and detached from the world, initially views the job as just another way to pass the time. He's a ghost of his former self, a killing machine with nothing left to lose. Or so he thinks. Pia's infectious spirit and genuine affection slowly chip away at Creasy's hardened exterior. Their unlikely bond blossoms, breathing new life into his weary soul. He rediscovers a sense of purpose, finding solace and a flicker of humanity in their friendship. He becomes a father figure, a protector, someone who cares. But this newfound connection also makes him vulnerable. Tragedy strikes when Pia is kidnapped, shattering Creasy's fragile peace. The unspeakable act ignites a fire within him, unleashing the dormant skills and unbridled rage of a seasoned warrior. This isn't just about rescuing a child; it's about reclaiming his own humanity and exacting brutal vengeance on those who dared to take away the one thing that gave his life meaning. *Man on Fire* is a relentless and visceral journey through the dark underbelly of organized crime. Quinnell masterfully crafts a tale of corruption, betrayal, and the lengths a man will go to for those he loves. Prepare to be captivated by the intense action, the complex characters, and the profound exploration of morality. This is more than just a thriller; it's a story about the enduring power of hope and the devastating consequences of loss. This compelling story has resonated with readers for decades and was adapted into a major motion picture. Experience the raw emotion and relentless action of A.J. Quinnell's *Man on Fire*. This paperback edition, published by Orion, offers a chance to delve into the story that has captivated readers worldwide, a must-read for fans of action thrillers and stories of redemption. Don't miss out on this iconic novel!