Murder for Hire is Ballentine’s story. He worked with criminals of all sorts, from vengeful spouses and partners to the criminally insane, all who had one thing in common: the desire to have someone killed. Ballentine could change his character at the drop of a hat, often imitating characters and “bad guys” from television and movies. In assuming an alternate identity and developing a reputation among the Phoenix underground---bikers, strippers, junkies, and thugs---he developed an intricate network of sources who fed him work and kept him extremely busy.
All the while, the author strove for the semblance of a normal life and balanced his rough-and-tumble career with a new wife and stepson. His story is a unique look at how law enforcement delves into the heart of the criminal world.
Chilling. A Real Eye Opener.
Jack Ballentine appeared as a guest on Coast to Coast AM last summer. That appearance compelled me to read his book Murder for Hire: My Life As the Country's Most Successful Undercover Agent. I read this very quickly in two nights. First I have to say that Ballentine is a very good storyteller. This talent amplifies the spine-chilling reality he uncovers in his memoir. It is unbelievable what he has experienced and endured along with his family, but there is one particular piece that has stuck with me ever since. I cannot believe how 'common' this horrifically devastating occurrence is! The way Ballentine expresses how frequently this 'hiring' goes on for a multitude of reasons, and with every type of person, leaves one speechless. I think if more people read this amazing account, more caution may be taken in general regarding the world today. I have recommended this book to many people. I thought I heard Ballentine mention on C2CAM that this is being optioned for a movie. I can only hope they do it justice.
Read: Summer 2008
Reviewed: March 30, 2010
Jack Ballentine became a Phoenix police officer in 1978 and quickly rose to the top as one of the world’s most successful undercover operatives. He also served as a homicide detective for the Phoenix Police Department. He is a three-time Police Officer of the Year, and has been awarded both the International Investigator of the Year and the Medal of Merit. He currently serves as the Director of Investigations for the Phoenix Fire Department. He lives in Mesa, Arizona, with his wife.
Visit the following websites relevant to the author:
*Personal literary collection.
