Description
Presented as fiction. How much of it truly belongs there is for the reader to decide.
Nine Lives by Paul Smith is a raw, hard-hitting British military thriller that moves from warzones and covert operations to mercenary contracts and Manchester’s ganglands. It explores violence, survival, PTSD and the choices that gradually transform a man.
He has seen violence dressed up as justice—and justice buried beneath silence. After walking away with more scars than savings, he tries to begin again: quietly, honestly and determined to build a different life.
But some ghosts refuse to remain buried.
As the past closes in, the instincts that once kept him alive threaten to destroy everything he has tried to build. Rules, uniforms and loyalties may contain the monster created for survival, but every cage eventually opens.
Dark, uncompromising and relentlessly gripping, Nine Lives examines what prolonged exposure to violence can turn men into—and whether someone trained to bury every emotion can ever truly escape what he has seen, done and become.
About this edition: Purchase the Nine Lives paperback edition for a complete printed copy of Paul Smith’s dark British military thriller. Paperback copies are printed and dispatched through BookVault.
Wild Flowers Homestead –
A powerful story of survival. The transition from war zones to normal life was handled brilliantly. Its uncomfortable at times but thats what makes it feel so authentic. Paul Smith has done an amazing job with this story it is definitely a must read.
Dawn Hough –
From the moment I picked this book up I was unable to put it down … expertly written that put you in the writers mind and in each intense situation … into a world that I knew existed but didn’t know existed proving that no matter what there is always a way out from that place called hell. I was emotionally gripped. Well done Paul a truly gripping story that took me to a different world.
Ben –
Absolutely sensational book, would highly recommend to anyone!
John Bower –
An excellent book , compelling reading , took me two days to read it from cover to cover , this would make a great film , but not sure it would be allowed ! Paul is very descriptive in his writing , I doubt that there could be a sequel , but who knows ? Well done Paul …
Ross Mccarthy –
I haven’t read a book this powerful in years. One of those rare ones that grabs your mind from the first page and doesn’t let go. The kind that makes you stop, think, and look at things differently. Every chapter hits hard and leaves something with you.
It’s not just a good book… it’s the kind that sticks with you long after you’ve put it down.
Honestly, if you’re looking for something inspiring, deep, and seriously powerful — get onto it. You won’t regret it.
MWH007 –
Absolutely cracking read. Couldn’t put it down. Will be looking at buying from this author again.
Stuart Browning –
Dark, Honest and Completely Compelling! Nine Lives A Brutal, Unflinching Story That Stays With You.
What a ride. Nine Lives is an amazing yet deeply challenging story about one man’s life, his struggles, and how each decision leads him further down a horrific path towards destruction. What drives a man into a life of pain? How does someone who has lived in a war zone return to civilian life — or is a “normal” life no longer possible?
All of these questions, and many more, are explored in this gripping tale that takes you from the harsh streets of Manchester to the war zones of Bosnia, Northern Ireland, and Afghanistan, before returning to Greater Manchester and beyond. It’s a story told straight from the heart — a tale of anguish, trauma, and loss, but also one of brutal honesty and hard-earned reflection.
Lee –
Wow!!!
I haven’t read for a very long time, I have never been much of a reader but this book has changed that. I never could have conceived that I’d actually be able to see more visually in my mind and imagination than watching a movie in HD. It ignited my senses I could see, touch, feel, smell with every word I read. It really allowed me to make peace with my own emotions and worries and really gave me great perspective and gratitude.
Shianna –
9 Lives is an engaging and heartfelt read that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The storytelling is smooth, emotional, and full of meaningful moments that really make you think. Each chapter pulls you in deeper, and the characters feel relatable and well-developed. It’s the kind of book you don’t want to put down and still think about after you’re done reading. Highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a powerful, enjoyable, and memorable read.
Fredy Sanchez –
Couldn’t put it down its an excelent tale❤️
Shan –
Its a very nice book
Overall, this is a very good book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a thoughtful and enjoyable read,
Patty cruz –
Intense and action-packed book a dark story about survival, violence and extreme decisions ideal for thriller fans.
Theresa N Riley –
Very engaging, explores choices, and personal growth. Highly recommend!
Nine Lives by Paul Smith is an engaging, well-paced read that blends thoughtful reflection with enjoyable storytelling. Each chapter feels purposeful, exploring life choices and personal growth in a relatable, realistic way. A calm, meaningful book I’d gladly recommend.
Kellieanne Mcneil –
Gripping and Easy to Read
Intense raw storytelling that pulls no punches. The plot moves fast, the tension never lets up and the characters stay with you long after the final page. A truly great read.
J –
Just came on here to share my thoughts on reading this after buying it online. This book is a gritty crime thriller about Paul Smith, a man shaped by extreme violence and survival. Moreover, the story follows his journey from war zones to criminal underworlds, showing how years of bloodshed, betrayal, and hard choices slowly turn him into something dangerous, and feared.
Elizabeth Stamey –
Great book!
This book is addicting. I couldn’t put it down. I’m about halfway reading it a second time. It’s thrilling, adventurous, dark, and addicting. From war zone to gang lands it’s got you hooked. I absolutely can’t wait to read more of Paul Smith’s work! I enjoyed this book to the max.
Frank Conaci –
I bought the paperback version of Nine Lives and I’m very happy with my purchase. The book arrived in good condition, and the print quality is clear and comfortable to read. The cover looks nice and feels durable.
The Literacy Shed –
Great book from start to end. Early chapters draw you in and the gritty, hard-hitting action makes it unputdownable.
Victoria c mc –
Gripping from start to finish..
Wow where to start because this book is an emotional rollercoaster that turns your knuckle whiter with each gripping turn! From swooning over a badboy to losing innocence training in the Army to becoming a cold hearted machine you want to slap sense into.. Every story in the “story” had me excited for the next yet worried I was enjoying how dark it got a little too much! I’m shocked that real people have actually gone through this “world” but if Paul Smith was a real person, well he’d be a proper sick guy to know right & his mrs a ledge!! And for all the ghosts out there that are still climbing the ladder without public recognition .. I salute you