Step into the thrilling world of Cycle of Violence, where pulse-pounding suspense and gritty action collide! Joseph Badal’s gripping series follows Matt Curtis, an ex-Army veteran turned orthopedic surgeon, as he battles dark forces in a world rife with crime. With its raw exploration of human trafficking, police corruption, and drug smuggling, this series hooks readers from the first page and never lets go.
Blending Badal’s military expertise with his knack for storytelling, Cycle of Violence delivers high-octane thrills set against vibrant backdrops like Albuquerque and Honolulu. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed thrillers or stories with heart, this series has something for everyone. Ready to dive into Matt Curtis’s adrenaline-fueled journey?
How Cycle of Violence Began
Joseph Badal, a decorated Army veteran and finance expert, crafted Cycle of Violence from a blend of personal experience and a passion for suspense. Inspired by real-life events involving a friend’s tragedy, Badal channeled his anger about human trafficking into his writing. His debut novel in the series, The Motive, released in 2016, won the prestigious Tony Hillerman Prize for Best Fiction Book, cementing his place in the thriller genre. Badal’s military background and New Mexico roots infuse the series with authenticity and vivid detail.
The Heart of Cycle of Violence
The series kicks off with The Motive, where Matt Curtis, now a surgeon in Albuquerque, investigates his sister Susan’s suspicious suicide in Honolulu. Teaming up with his sister’s friend Renee Drummond and ex-Special Forces buddy Esteban Maldonado, Matt uncovers a web of organized crime led by the ruthless Lonnie Jackson. The second book, Obsessed, dives deeper into Matt’s fight against corruption, while Justice, the third installment, takes readers to Costa Rica and Nicaragua, tackling human trafficking with breakneck intensity. The fourth book, Soulless, continues the saga with more global stakes.
Badal’s novels weave themes of justice, betrayal, and redemption through gritty action and complex characters. The series tackles heavy issues—human trafficking, police corruption, and drug smuggling—with unflinching realism, yet balances them with friendship and romance. Set in diverse locales, from New Mexico’s deserts to Hawaii’s lush landscapes, the vivid settings enhance the suspense. Fans praise the series for its fast-paced plots, realistic dialogue, and Matt’s relatable heroism, making it a standout in the thriller genre.
Why Cycle of Violence Resonates
Cycle of Violence has carved a niche among thriller fans for its bold storytelling and timely themes. The series’ exploration of real-world issues like human trafficking resonates with readers seeking more than just escapism. Badal’s ability to craft everyman heroes like Matt Curtis, paired with his knack for heart-stopping action, keeps readers hooked. Winning the Tony Hillerman Prize elevated the series’ profile, and its growing fanbase eagerly awaits each new release. Its blend of suspense, heart, and social commentary ensures it remains a compelling read.
- Publication Years: 2016–2023
- Number of Books: 4 (The Motive, Obsessed, Justice, Soulless)
- Awards: Tony Hillerman Prize for Best Fiction Book (2016) for The Motive
Grab The Motive and dive into Cycle of Violence’s thrilling world of suspense and action! Join Matt Curtis on his quest for justice—you won’t be able to put it down!