EDITOR’S CHOICE
A masterfully crafted wartime thriller, blending riveting action, authentic historical detail, and unforgettable characters. John McKay delivers perfection.
“In For The Kill,” the third instalment in The Manner of Men series by John McKay, delivers a gripping and action-packed tale of courage, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of victory during one of the darkest chapters of World War II. Fans of historical military fiction will find themselves thoroughly drawn in as McKay expertly blends riveting storytelling with meticulous historical detail.
Set against the bleak backdrop of post-Operation Market Garden Holland in 1944, the narrative wastes no time plunging readers into the perilous mission undertaken by Sergeant Sean Harris and his band of paratroopers. Their assignment—to sabotage a secret Nazi facility producing synthetic fuel for V-2 rockets—is fraught with danger and suspense, heightened by the involvement of the Dutch resistance, whose valour gives the story emotional depth.
McKay’s characters leap off the page, each imbued with distinct personalities and motivations. Harris’s unyielding resolve, Lieutenant Tasker’s sharp wit, and the resilience of Dutch operatives Jan Mesman and Johanna van der Molen make for a compelling ensemble. Special mention must be made of Heinrich Müller’s ruthless protégé, Heini Böhmer, whose pursuit of the protagonists injects a chilling intensity into the narrative.
The pacing is impeccable, with taut action sequences balanced by moments of camaraderie and reflection. McKay’s attention to historical accuracy enhances the authenticity, immersing readers in a high-stakes world where bravery is the only path to survival.
In In For The Kill, McKay solidifies his reputation as a master of wartime fiction. A must-read for fans of James Holland and Damien Lewis, this thrilling novel is both engaging and unforgettable. Highly recommended.

