Matt Helm - The Devastators

Reading this book in 2015 reminds us that the issue of bio-terrorism is still more than real enough in this day and age. And the terrorists are just as nuts now as the ones portrayed in the novel. Helm has many times put himself into the custody of truly evil people, confident that somehow he will regain control of the situation and overcome. It's a good thing for him that his destiny lies in the hands of his creator Donald Hamilton, rather than, say, ISIS. Hamilton has used variations of this in some of his other novels, and it does make for a degree of suspense, even though we all know that he does regain and overcome the situation. It's acceptable for the sake of recreational reading. His dialogue and sexual encounters have always seemed a little corny and unrealistic to me, but it works, I guess, after a fashion, if the reader does not really focus on it. I am re-reading these novels after a period of more than twenty-five years, and there is still enough entertainment value here to keep me going. What's the name of the next one, again?

This time out, it's Scotland's turn for the Helm treatment. Quite the cast of characters this time, including a deluded scientist and a lady trying to take over the world. Reminded me of the Fu Manchu books. Good stuff.

As usual, Donald Hamilton delivers a very good story line and an unsentimental look at international competition that is refreshing in this day and age, though his stories stand the test of time. His writing is fluid and uncluttered though not simplistic, and he surprises at times with deep insights or fascinating tidbits of history. These books also show that neither vulgar language nor lurid descriptions are needed to make a tale realistic and engaging. You won't be able to put it down.

Every Matt Helm novel is excellent. I cannot think of another secret agent/spy w in any book who is more believable. He practices his craft exactly as trained always remembering that the mission comes first everything else, including his survival is secondary. He is resourceful, cold and calculating. I have already marked my calendar noting when his next adventure will be available.

I have been reading the "Matt Helm" series since high school; my dad got me started, I would sneak his copy. My hard copies cost less than a dollar. To have them all when I travel is a delight.

The earliest books in the series are the best ( along with some non-Helm and Western novels) but they are all totally enjoyable, and well written.

good book

Matt Helm is an American spy novel which is well written. He is better then James bond in my opinion and more accurately portrayed spy.

A good book in a great spy series.