What's Your Story: Jerry

Please share some of your background:
I'm a 49 year old Engineering Manager for a Major Appliance company here in United States. I born in Arizona, raised in South Dakota and now live in North Carolina. My wife and I have 2 boys and 1 girl that we adopted. We also have 4 dogs and 2 cats. My hobbies are spending time with my family, especially going to the beach, working on my Ram Warlock, and of course reading. Especially all things Mitch Rapp.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I started reading the Rapp series several years ago. I can remember I was flying out of RDU airport, passing time before my flight when I came across a book that little did I know what kind of impact it would have on me. That book? Memorial Day by Vince Flynn. I couldn't put the book down on the flight to Stockholm and had it finished in no time. Since then I have been one of Vince Flynn's and now Kyle Mills biggest fans!

Which book is your favorite?
It really is hard to say, all of them are so well written, so much so I have read them all twice, soon to be working on 3rd time. If I had to pick one though, I would have to say Memorial Day due to the fact this is the book that started it all for me in this series. I would say a close 2nd though would be Code Red, to me one of Mills' finest Rapp books and what a way to go out with a book like that!

Do you have a favorite character?
Again, this is a hard one to choose as there are so many characters through out the entire series. Mitch is one of the more obvious choices as favorite character and I would have to say I would go with him as mine. Due to the fact that he does what he does for the love of his country and is so compassionate about it. Beyond that, I would have to say that Kennedy is my second favorite, due to the fact that she made Rapp who is he is and is such an important person in his life.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
I honestly would have to say I would choose to be Rapp, due to the passion and loyalty to his family, friends and country. He will do what it takes to defend them to keep them all safe. He also doesn't do what he does to be recognized, recieve medals or expect anything in return. I will say this, the one character I wouldn't want to be is the one that Rapp is coming after!

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
I have to say that losing Vince years ago was such a tragic loss, not because of his books that he wrote (although they are fantastic!!), but because we all lost such a wonderful person. Although I never had the honor to meet him, the things that you read and the videos of the man you see, its not hard to see and say what a great man he really was and no doubt he left this world too soon. Thank you to the people that carry on Vince's legacy, the people that make his fan club what it is, the website and social media accounts that they run/maintain and how it keeps us Rapp fans connected! I also would like to thank Kyle Mills for taking the Rapp series on and making it his own. It truly is hard for me to determine where Flynn's writing ends and Mills begins. I didn't think that was possible but he sure proved me wrong! So thanks to him and I wish him nothing but the best moving forward. Lastly, I want to say to Don Bentley welcome to the Rapp universe! Very much looking forward to seeing what direction you take Mitch and his team!!! Just know, if you need any ideas, I would be more the glad to help ya out!!!

What's Your Story: Greg

Please share some of your background:
I’m a high school math teacher entering my 27th year. I live in Senecaville, Ohio with my wife Samantha. My daughter Alexis lives in the New Orleans area and works for the National Weather Service.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I’ve been on board from the beginning. The Rapp novels really started my reading journey.

Which book is your favorite?
Tough question but maybe Total Power. It’s just so plausible!

Do you have a favorite character?
Gotta be Mitch!

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Again tough. But make me a villain so I can feel Mitch’s wrath from the other side. Ha!

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
I loved Vince and sincerely appreciate what Kyle has done with the series.

What's Your Story: Sean

Please share some of your background:
I’m a disabled Veteran who was infantry. I served in Afghanistan for one tour but was medically discharged for injuries in a training exercise. I’m now retired and reading has always been a huge part of my life.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I picked up Mitch Rapp when the news of American Assassin came out. I like the actor Dylan O’Brien and of course Michael Keaton. So I picked it up and within six months I had read them all. I love characters like Mitch Rapp, Jack Reacher. Aaron Steele, Vick Harwood. All basically the combat arms guys like me and they think tactically like I would. So it was like I was along and knew what would happen.

Which book is your favorite?
I gotta go with the OG American Assassin because it’s a great origin story.

Do you have a favorite character?
I love Mitch but Scott is more like I am.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
I think I’d be Scott working with the renegade but still willing to do what is necessary to complete the mission.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Since I started reading the books I passed all of them on to my fellow brothers in arms and I’ve got every one of my brothers as big Mitch Rapp fans.

What's Your Story: Matt

Please share some of your background:
I’ve been working in the supply chain and logistics field for twenty years, but I had my debut political spy thriller, Surviving The Lion’s Den, published in October 2021. I owe my success as a writer in large part to Vince Flynn whose writing inspired me.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I was on an elevator one day at work talking with someone who I had never seen before and have never seen again. I mentioned that I liked reading spy novels and he suggested Vince Flynn. After reading Act Of Treason, I immediately purchased all of Vince’s preceding novels. In a way, my literary journey started that day. To this day, I still believe that my meeting that man on the elevator was Divine intervention.

Which book is your favorite?
Protect And Defend because it had the heaviest plot about Iran, and when Irene Kennedy got kidnapped, it allowed us to see the darkest part of Mitch Rapp.

Do you have a favorite character?
Other than Mitch? Stan Hurley he was one tough SOB, was one of the few people Mitch respected, was a wild card, and probably had some of the coolest stories to tell over drinks.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Thomas Stanfield because he knew everyone’s secrets, knew we’re all the bodies were buried (political or literal), and was the one person the Mitch respected enough to never try and cross.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
I hated reading in high school and college simply because of the novels that I was assigned to read. Vince Flynn’s novels not only brought be back to the literary world, but ensured that I’ve stayed for eternity. I couldn’t have become the writer that I am today with Vince Flynn. His influences on me are too many to be counted. My only regret is that I never got to meet him personally.

What's Your Story: Sue

Please share some of your background:
I’ve worked my entire life. I come from a blue collar family and I love reading.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I started reading Mitch Rapp a few years after Vince started writing the books.

Which book is your favorite?
I couldn’t pick just one favorite one because every single book I’ve read is a page turner you don’t want to set down. Oath Of Loyalty was outstanding and I loved it.

Do you have a favorite character?
Besides Mitch I’m a fan of Irene Kennedy. After her it is guys.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
It would have to be Irene because of her intelligence and love of country. She sees people as they truly are.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
If you ever make another movie from one of these wonderful books please cast Mitch better. The guy someone picked to play Mitch in American Assassin was not cast well.

What's Your Story: Keith

Please share some of your background:
I am a soon-to-be public school educator and administrator. What's important to understand about the fact that I listen to and read these books is that I am dyslexic. And while I am able to navigate text today, for decades it hasn't been so easy. It is only in the last three years that I have been able to read novels of this length and complexity. Having listened to numerous Rapp and other similar books has helped me gain sure footing on the scenes, which allows me to focus on the decoding and the processing of the narrative. It is slow going, but it has become enjoyable thanks to these writers.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I didn't read my first Rapp story until about three years ago, but I listened to my first audio version back in 2013.

Which book is your favorite?
I can't identify a favorite, but I am really enjoying listening to Oath Of Loyalty.

Do you have a favorite character?
Irene Kennedy - smart, cool, respected, and feared - all without firing a shot.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Coleman - the sidekick who is loyal and effective.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Who owns the movie rights? Who would you like to see in the Mitch Rapp role? The Reacher franchise is off to a tough start, as Cruise certainly wasn't the character of Jack Reacher that any devoted reader would have in mind. Ritchson on the Amazon Prime series is a better fit. As for Rapp, you need someone spidery and fit, good-looking without being a pretty boy. A younger Daniel Craig would be a start.

What's Your Story: Gary

Please share some of your background:
Former US Army.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
At the beginning. A lot on deployment as a DOD civilian.

Which book is your favorite?
Too many. They weaved you through places most do not see nor know they exist.

Do you have a favorite character?
Like most Mitch Rapp, but the mega handler at The Farm was most excellent.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Rapp had a rough time with many heartbreaks. Sounds like me so Mitch Rapp.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Thanks for the ride.

What's Your Story: Jeff

Please share some of your background:
Way back in 2004, I was assigned to Andrews AFB. My Wing Commander was a huge VF fan and found out Vince was coming to Andrews for a book signing. I later noticed the signed books in the Wing CC’s office and I inquired about them. He told me VF was his favorite author and that I should check him out. Sadly, I had missed the book signing, but did pay a visit to the BX where I discovered a signed paperback copy of Memorial Day. Not only did that book launch my desire to read EVERYTHING Vince had written, it remains one of my most guarded prizes in my library to this day. I have read every book in the series and will continue to do so as long as I’m able.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
2004.

Which book is your favorite?
Memorial Day because even though it was read out of sequence, it’s the book that set the hook for me.

Do you have a favorite character?
Rapp. Period.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Rapp. His command presence. His ability to multi task. His ability to always find beautiful and smart women.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Love, love, love the books and recommend them to all comers. Just as my Wing CC had done for me years ago.

What's Your Story: Lisa

Please share some of your background:
I'm an author and 5th generation chicken keeper living in Maine, but I used to work on Wall Street and after that, I owned a bookstore on Long Island.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I was fortunate enough to start at the very beginning. Since I owned a bookstore back in 1999 when Transfer Of Power came out, I ordered copies for my store and picked up a copy to read after so many of my customers raved about it.

Which book is your favorite?
Trick question! I loved the early books, but am impressed at how the character has developed both under Vince Flynn's hand and since.

Do you have a favorite character?
Of course Mitch would be the obvious answer, but I love Irene Kennedy. She's such a strong, wise woman. Great character.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
I think I might be cautious about being a love interest of Mitch's since they've met some untimely deaths, so I'll sit that one out!

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Wonderful job, Kyle, carrying on the Mitch Rapp legend. I'm sure Vince would be proud.

What's Your Story: Chauncey

Please share some of your background:
I am a retired lady, living in Myrtle Beach, SC. I am addicted to the Mitch Rapp series since the originals from Vince Flynn. I just finished Oath Of Loyalty, and it was awesome (as usual).

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
A previous boss, who now lives in Pensacola, FL originally recommended Mitch Rapp to me. I think it was in the early 2000's...before Vince Flynn died.

Which book is your favorite?
I don't think I could possibly pick just one...but I remember being blown away (no pun intended) by Memorial Day. Also, the one in which Kyle practically predicted the pandemic was pretty scary...not to mention the power grid disaster!

Do you have a favorite character?
Though he is a small part, I always have loved Scott Coleman. Loyal, devoted, always reliable for Mitch. Liked when Mitch used to call him "Blondie." I really love all the ex-SEAL team members & their expertise when needed.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Well, Irene Kennedy, of course! She's the smartest, coolest woman on the planet!

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
So sad that Vince had to leave so early, but very happy Kyle could resume for him & keep the original fearless spirit of Mitch Rapp & the other characters!

What's Your Story: Terri

Please share some of your background:
My father passed away this last January and we shared a love of books. Both he and I would read and compare notes on all the Mitch Rapp books together. Including the very first one and reading each one there after. I have kept them all and feel grateful that I got to share those memories with my father. He was truly amazing and this just gave us something in common. Thank you for the gift of reading and sharing.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I have read all of the books in order and have them saved. this Oath Of Loyalty will be my first Nook book.

Which book is your favorite?
Sorry, but each one is unique to me and well done. But I have to say the first one got me hooked and so it must be my favorite.

Do you have a favorite character?
Mitch of course. Because of the way he works out problems and never stops.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Of course, I would want to be protected or saved by him. That's always fun. I don't think being his girlfriend is a very long life span though. lol

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Thank you for continuing this series and I truly look forward to them each year and always pre-order.

What's Your Story: Reva

Please share some of your background:
Army Veteran, 20 years of service.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I started reading the Mitch Rapp series in 2003, and I have read every book since that time.

Which book is your favorite?
Term Limits is my favorite because it started my interest in the series. This book had all of my interests: heroes, take downs of the bad guys, and characters with heart!

Do you have a favorite character?
Navy Seal Scott Coleman is absolutely the coolest dude!

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Charlie Wicker, the sniper - always on point!

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Waiting for the next book always has me on pins and needles. As soon as I hear of the release date, the book is usually pre-ordered and the date noted on my calendar!

What's Your Story: Cynthia

Please share some of your background:
Retired kindergarten teacher and director of an Early Childhood Education program in Tempe, AZ. Graduate of Arizona State University.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
Early 2000’s.

Which book is your favorite?
Impossible to pick a favorite , but I loved American Assassin because it provided a lot of background material about Mitch Rapp. Similar to a prequel.

Do you have a favorite character and why?
I enjoy many of the reoccurring characters in the novels, but Mitch had me from the start.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Irene Kennedy. I love her relationship of trust and loyalty to Mitch, regardless of the situation.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
I was deeply hurt when I heard about Vince Flynn’s death. When a successor was chosen to continue the Mitch Rapp saga I was skeptical. Kyle Mills, however, has done a masterful job of seamlessly continuing the saga of Mitch Rapp, much to my relief and, I’m sure, that of millions of Mitch Rapp devotees. Kudos to Kyle and those responsible for his selection.

What's Your Story: Jay

Please share some of your background:
An avid reader, retired after a life in Operations Management. Now I read, play golf and am fortunate to have loved what I’ve done all my life. It never seemed like a job.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
Term Limits hooked me to Vince Flynn and then Transfer of Power was read in one setting. I was hooked and couldn’t wait for the next book, unaware it was going to be a Mitch Rapp series. So glad it did and remains my favorite author in the genre.

Which book is your favorite?
Transfer Of Power followed closely by American Assassin. But I’ve read all of them multiple times so they’re like favorite children impossible to pick one.

Do you have a favorite character and why?
Holding Mitch aside, Scott Coleman and Charlie Wicker (an exceptional character).

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Steven Rapp just because of how little is known about him but how important he is to the series as it goes along.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
I read Term Limits and was hooked; my son was 13 at the time and he devoured it. We both look forward to reading the latest one immediately, then we talk about it and why we loved it. Something we’ve shared for 23 years.

What's Your Story: Dottie

Please share some of your background:
Former professional golfer on the LPGA Tour with 17 wins, including 2 major championships. Now an author (Letters to a Future Champion: My Time with Mr. Pulver -self published, 2021) and the lead walking reporter for CBS Golf on PGA Tour schedule.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
Started at the very beginning!

Which book is your favorite?
Term Linits. Grabbed the reader from the beginning and something so relevant today.

Do you have a favorite character and why?
Mitch— except for injury recovery!

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Claudia— never misses a detail and her character has evolved so amazingly.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
The seamless way Kyle has been such a steward of Vince’s work while sharing his own style.

What's Your Story: John

Please share some of your background:
USAF retired. 20+ years in SAC and Munitions. Retired public high school teacher.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
Term Limits, 1997.

Which book is your favorite?
Probably Term Limits because it's the one that introduced me to the series. Have spent MANY a fine hour reading Mitch's adventures. Also Transfer Of Power, in which Mitch makes his debut.

Do you have a favorite character and why?
Mitch, of course. Who wouldn't like him. After that, Iran Kennedy (a certified BA) and Stan Hurley (another BA).

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Stan Hurley. Older guys RULE!

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Great series. Was a black day when Vince died. Glad the ride continues.

What's Your Story: David

Please share some of your background:
Canadian author with seventeen years of military service and looking forward to retirement!

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I began reading the Mitch Rapp novels in summer of 2018, and quickly devoured them.

Which book is your favorite?
Total Power for the plausibility.

Do you have a favorite character and why?
Kennedy, for keeping Mitch grounded.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
I would be someone in the background, supporting role.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
I found the novels as inspiration to begin a writing career.

What's Your Story: Sandi

Please share some of your background:
I own The Book Dragon Shop Staunton, VA. I have more than 18 years of book experience. I served in the Army and believe in supporting our military. I’ve always been an avid reader and military thrillers have always been a favorite from the first time I read Patriot Games by Tom Clancy. I’ve lived in Virginia for almost 20 years and am originally from Ohio.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I started out reading Memorial Day and hadn’t realized at the time it was a series. I was thrilled to find out it was series and picked up the previous books and haven’t looked back. This series is must buy and read as soon it comes out for me. My love of this series has led me to find other authors who I’ve come to love, but this series, is my absolute favorite

Which book is your favorite?
American Assassin is my absolute favorite, we get to see what shapes Mitch and why he does what he does. It also gives more detail on the people who surround him and influence him. This is hard to pick just one so I have to add Term Limits to this list

Do you have a favorite character and why?
It’s Mitch. Of course Stanley is a close second

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Irene Kennedy. She is the smartest person in the books and I’ve loved watching her influence on Mitch

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Reading the books make me hope there are men of the caliber of Mitch and his friends who are watching over and protecting us. I always think of the quote, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

What's Your Story: Todd

Please share some of your background:
I am an avid Thriller reader . If I'm not reading, chances are I'm watching a soccer match, at one of my kids soccer games, or running around with taking photos.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
I started reading Vince in 2010 when I picked up a copy of American Assassin.

Which book is your favorite?
I would say it is tied between American Assassin (because it was my first) and Enemy At The Gates (because it was the most recent... and awesome!).

Do you have a favorite character and why?
Mitch is the easy choice, but a close second is Scott Coleman. He's capable and absolutely hilarious. That's a tough combo to beat.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Whoever is flying close air support or remote piloting the drone. That sounds fun and reasonably safe. I'm not looking to get shot at or in to being forced to fashion a lock pick out of a human bone in order to unlock the cage I'm imprisoned in.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Having got into Vince later on in the series, I quickly went back and read the previous books. I've been a super fan ever since. I think Kyle has done an amazing job continuing the series by mixing his own unique storylines with Vince's original style and canon.

What's Your Story: Bill

Please share some of your background:
First-wave Baby Boomer. 74-year old retired oilfield supervisor and small business owner. Read the first Rapp book shortly after release checking it out of the library. Now I have all 20 books in my Kindle library and whenever the newest book comes out I go back and read them all again. Like visiting an old friend.

When did you start reading Mitch Rapp? 
Shortly after the first one was released.

Which book is your favorite?
Everyone of them.

If you could be any character in Vince's novels, who would it be and why?
Before the latest book I would say Mike Nash, but now Stan.

Is there anything else you would like to share relating to Mitch Rapp, Vince or Kyle?
Great characters and seamless story telling.