For enthusiasts of heart-pounding suspense and action-packed narratives, the Peter Ash novel series by Nick Petrie offers a compelling journey into the life of a complex and unforgettable protagonist. If you’re seeking a new series to dive into, especially if you appreciate authors like Lee Child and his iconic Jack Reacher, then the Peter Ash books are tailor-made for your reading list.
Meet Peter Ash: The Reluctant Hero
Peter Ash is not your typical hero. A war veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, he returns home to a world that feels alien. Haunted by severe PTSD, manifesting as an overwhelming “white static” in enclosed spaces, Ash chooses a life of isolation in nature. This condition, a constant companion, shapes his choices and actions throughout the series.
Explore the thrilling world of Peter Ash through the complete book series.
His attempts at solitude are consistently interrupted by his innate sense of justice and a deep-seated need to help those in need. It’s this internal conflict – a desire for peace versus a warrior’s heart – that makes Peter Ash such a captivating character. He’s a drifter, both physically and emotionally, trying to navigate a world that triggers his trauma while simultaneously being drawn into situations where his unique skills are desperately required.
Why Peter Ash Resonates with Readers
The Peter Ash series has garnered significant praise, particularly from fans of the Jack Reacher novels. The similarities are undeniable: both are veterans, possess exceptional combat skills, and operate outside conventional societal structures. However, Peter Ash brings a different dimension to the vigilante hero archetype.
While Reacher is often portrayed as a force of nature, almost invincible, Ash is more vulnerable and relatable due to his PTSD. This vulnerability adds layers to his character, making his struggles and triumphs more impactful. Readers connect with his internal battles as much as his external ones. He’s not just fighting criminals; he’s fighting his own demons.
Furthermore, Nick Petrie crafts intricate plots that go beyond simple action sequences. Each book delves into complex issues and introduces a diverse cast of characters that Ash encounters and aids. The series excels at blending high-octane action with emotional depth, making for a truly immersive reading experience.
The Peter Ash Books in Order: A Reading Guide
Here’s the complete publication order of the Peter Ash novels, allowing you to follow his journey from the very beginning:
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The Drifter (2016): The debut novel introduces Peter Ash as he emerges from his self-imposed exile to help a friend’s widow. He soon finds himself entangled in a dangerous mystery involving stolen cash and explosives, forcing him to confront his past and his capabilities.
The Drifter Book Cover The Drifter: Peter Ash’s first adventure into a world he tried to leave behind. -
Burning Bright (2017): Seeking solace in the California redwoods, Ash’s peace is shattered when he encounters June Cassidy, a reporter in danger. He must use his skills to protect her from unknown assailants, uncovering a conspiracy linked to her deceased mother’s work.
Burning Bright Book Cover Burning Bright: Peter Ash finds himself protecting a reporter in the California redwoods. -
Light It Up (2018): Ash travels to Milwaukee and becomes involved in a case of arson and corruption. He teams up with a private investigator to unravel a web of deceit and violence, facing powerful adversaries in the process.
Light It Up Book Cover Light It Up: Peter Ash confronts arson and corruption in Milwaukee. -
Tear It Down (2019): Responding to a call for help from a woman rebuilding her family business in Detroit, Ash uncovers a ruthless criminal enterprise threatening her livelihood. He must use his tactical expertise to dismantle the operation and protect the innocent.
Tear It Down Book Cover Tear It Down: Peter Ash fights for justice in the industrial landscape of Detroit. -
The Wild One (2020): Venturing into Montana’s wilderness, Ash encounters a woman pursued by dangerous individuals. Set against the backdrop of the rugged landscape, he must protect her while confronting his own limitations and the harsh realities of the wild.
The Wild One Book Cover The Wild One: Peter Ash battles the elements and enemies in the Montana wilderness. -
The Breaker (2021): In rural Wisconsin, Ash investigates a suspicious accident at a construction site. He soon uncovers a conspiracy involving environmental damage and corporate greed, putting him at odds with powerful and corrupt forces.
The Breaker Book Cover The Breaker: Peter Ash uncovers a conspiracy in rural Wisconsin. -
The Runaway (2022): Ash is drawn into the search for a missing teenage girl in rural Maine. His investigation leads him through the dark underbelly of a seemingly idyllic community, forcing him to confront difficult truths and dangerous secrets.
The Runaway Book Cover The Runaway: Peter Ash searches for a missing girl in the shadows of rural Maine. -
The Price You Pay / The Heavy Lift (2024): The latest installment in the series promises to deliver even more thrills and suspense as Peter Ash faces new challenges and adversaries (Further details to be added upon release).
The Price You Pay Book Cover The Price You Pay: The newest Peter Ash novel, continuing his action-packed journey.
About the Author: Nick Petrie
Nick Petrie is the talented author behind the Peter Ash series. His background as a home inspector provided him with unique insights into the lives of everyday people, and his interactions with veterans profoundly influenced the creation of Peter Ash. Petrie holds an MFA in Fiction from the University of Washington and resides in Milwaukee. His writing is characterized by its gripping narratives, well-developed characters, and authentic portrayal of Peter Ash’s struggles and triumphs.
Conclusion: Dive into the Peter Ash Series
The Peter Ash novel series is a must-read for anyone who enjoys action thrillers with depth and complexity. Peter Ash is a hero who is both flawed and formidable, making him incredibly compelling. If you are a fan of authors like Lee Child, Vince Flynn, or David Baldacci, Nick Petrie’s Peter Ash series is your next literary obsession. Start with “The Drifter” and prepare to be hooked!
