A DEADLY RECKONING UNFOLDS
in book three of Michael Balter's award-winning crime thriller series.
"A double-shot of murder, dark humor, and white-knuckled suspense that works on every level. Dead Exit will wow newcomers and satisfy series die-hards."-BestThrillers.com
Marty Schott and Bo Bishop are trying to extricate themselves from a dangerous business partnership with a Russian oligarch when a midnight phone call shatters their plans. Bo's brother-in-law has been murdered-and the Portland police detective on the scene recognizes them instantly. He's questioned them before. He hasn't forgotten.
As Marty and Bo dig for answers, they uncover a hidden wire, criminal activity inside their own company, and a killer who isn't finished. What begins as a murder investigation quickly spirals into a high-stakes web of cigarette smuggling, counterfeit money, and a covert FBI operation they don't yet understand. Every lead pulls them deeper into a conspiracy that blurs the line between criminals and law enforcement-and puts their families squarely in the crosshairs.
At the same time, the cracks between them begin to widen. Marty is still entangled with Natalya, the alluring power broker linked to the powerful investor they're trying to escape, and Marty's inability to cut ties threatens everything. Bo's loyalty is pushed to the limit as secrets, suspicion, and past betrayals collide. With pressure mounting from every direction, a single misstep pulls Marty into a deadly trap-and forces a choice that could cost him everything.
In Dead Exit, danger isn't over-it's waiting for one wrong move.
"Packed with action, Dead Exit unfolds as a sweeping saga of smuggling, corruption, and intrigue inspired by a real-world FBI sting operation."-D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
"Riveting and unrelenting-Dead Exit is the kind of book that lingers. Balter is at the top of his game." -Andrew Bridgeman, author of the internationally acclaimed Emma Noble FBI series
"Move over Connelly, Paretsky, and Mosley, I have a new favorite mystery thriller writer!"-Warren C. Easley, award-winning author of the Cal Claxton Mysteries
About the Author :
Michael Balter writes crime thrillers blending sharp wit with high-stakes suspense. His debut novel, Chasing Money, won multiple awards, including the Best Indie Book Award for Crime Thrillers and the 2024 Crime Thriller of the Year award from BestThrillers.com. His second novel, The Vatican Deal, is also an award-winner. His third novel, Dead Exit, coming July 7, 2026, continues the Marty and Bo thriller series. Born in Berlin, Michael grew up in a bombed-out building. When the Berlin Wall went up, his family fled to America. During the Vietnam War, he served as an air traffic controller at the Udorn Air Force Base in Thailand. Michael earned a degree in Aerospace Engineering before joining Intel Corporate in the early days of Silicon Valley. He later became an entrepreneur, launching ventures ranging from a voice recognition startup to an art company, and a private equity firm. The kidnapping of a business partner by a Russian mobster inspired elements of Chasing Money. Michael lives in Charlevoix, Michigan and is working on his next novel. Learn more at mbalter.com.
Review :
"A double-shot of murder, dark humor, and white-knuckled suspense that works on every level. Dead Exit will wow newcomers and satisfy series die-hards."-BestThrillers.com
"Packed with action, Dead Exit unfolds as a sweeping saga of smuggling, corruption, and intrigue inspired by a real-world FBI sting operation."-D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
"Riveting and unrelenting-Dead Exit is the kind of book that lingers. Balter is at the top of his game." -Andrew Bridgeman, author of the internationally acclaimed Emma Noble FBI series
"High stakes and dire consequences that will keep you reading late into the night." -Charlotte Morganti, award-winning author of the Gabrieli Mysteries
"Move over Connelly, Paretsky, and Mosley, I have a new favorite mystery thriller writer! If you like a timely, intelligent plot, richly drawn characters, and dialogue that crackles with wit, humor, and authenticity, this book is for you."-Warren C. Easley, award-winning author of the Cal Claxton Mysteries
